‘This IB school has made her more responsible’

Moving to an IB curriculum can be a major leap, not just for students but for parents as well. In this conversation, Tanmeet Kaur, mother of Vaanya, a student of DP-1 at Apeejay’s IB School, Apeejay School International, Panchsheel Park, reflects on her daughter’s transition, the emotional and academic adjustments that came with it, and the role the school played in helping her become more confident, independent, and self-aware.

How did your daughter react when she learnt that she was going to and IB programme?

It was completely her decision. From my side, I was a little worried. We attended many counselling sessions where she was told that the transition would be difficult. But she wanted more than just academics. She wanted a global exposure.

What were some of your concerns and how did the school help address them?

Since it was fully her decision, I was worried about how the school would connect with her and whether she would be able to adapt properly. But the school helped her throughout the process. They guided her very patiently during the whole year. It was tough for her to adapt because the process was completely different, and there were definitely ups and downs, but with the school’s support, the transition became smooth with time.

How and why did you choose this school?

It was not really our choice as parents. Vaanya chose this school. We attended two or three meetings with her and interacted with the teachers and the Vice-principal. These interactions made her feel that this school was the right place for her future planning and growth.

The IB programme can be rigorous. How is she balancing academics with her other interests?

It requires a lot of self-management. Earlier, she was not someone who planned things, but now she tries to balance her academics, extracurricular activities, and personal time as well. I will not say she is managing everything perfectly, but she has definitely become capable of planning and managing things independently.

Would you say this change has come because of the IB curriculum?

Earlier she was a spoon feeding child. I used to sit with her throughout Class X, but this time I do not even know anything about her books. She has become much more responsible now. She now takes decisions independently and is much more aware of her choices.

How has the school helped change the way she thinks or expresses herself?

I think the teachers communicate with her very well. If I talk about her university counsellor or her teachers, everyone is extremely open-minded with her. She gets many opportunities to share her opinions. They genuinely listen to Vaanya as well. They understand how she thinks and help her grow.

How are you supporting her through this new curriculum?

My husband and I mainly try to keep her positive and ask her not to take too much stress. We tell her to accept whatever opportunities and challenges come her way. There were times when she felt emotionally drained, but now she has settled well.