Recently, Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park, hosted an orientation programme for the parents of Class VI students. The event was designed to help parents gain insight into the academic environment and ethos of the school, particularly focusing on the shift their children would experience as they step into middle school.
The session began with a warm welcome by the Vice-principal, Ms Vandana Bansal. In her address, she emphasised the essential role parents play in a child’s holistic development. Highlighting the core vision and mission of Apeejay School, she encouraged parents to be proactive participants in their child’s educational journey.
Ms Bansal spoke passionately about the importance of collaboration between home and school. “As a school, we ensure a smooth academic and emotional transition for students moving from primary to middle school through multiple measures. During the orientation programme, we guide parents on how to support their child in becoming an independent learner rather than relying on rote learning. We also familiarise them with the middle school rules, curriculum structure, notebook and stationery requirements, as well as clubs and House meeting details. This clarity helps reduce anxiety and sets clear expectations,” she said.
The school counsellors also play a crucial role by conducting individual or group sessions to help students manage change, build confidence, and develop organisational skills, she added.
“Academically, we implement a bridging curriculum where teachers from different grades collaborate to align skills and gradually introduce middle school expectations. Before the new academic session begins, transition meetings are held between the previous and new class and subject teachers to help the new teachers understand their students better. We also follow a buddy system for new admissions, allowing them to adjust to the new environment with peer support.
“We believe in ongoing collaboration with parents through regular communication, encouraging volunteering, and reinforcing values like empathy and responsibility at home. This united approach supports every child’s holistic development throughout the year,” Ms Bansal said.
Academic insights and expectations
Parents were given an overview of how the middle school differs from primary classes. They were informed about the new subjects, classroom environment, and teaching methodologies that their children would now be exposed to.
The faculty explained the assessment patterns and how evaluations are aimed at supporting consistent growth rather than just performance. Homework policies were also discussed to ensure parents understand the expectations and support mechanisms that would help students stay on track.
A partnership for success
The programme stressed the idea that education is most effective when there is active collaboration between school and home. By the end of the session, parents expressed appreciation for the thoughtful orientation. Many felt reassured and well-informed about their child’s new academic phase.