Choosing the best school for their child is a significant decision for Indian parents, and they often go to great lengths to ensure their child receives a quality education. There are so many steps that they take in this regard. First, parents extensively research schools in their locality and beyond. They gather information from various sources, including websites, school brochures, and recommendations from friends and family.
Second, recommendations and feedback from other parents who have children in the schools they are considering play a crucial role. This informal network helps parents gauge the school’s reputation. Parents often visit multiple schools to get a feel for the campus, facilities, and the overall environment. This firsthand experience helps them make informed decisions.
Fourth, academic excellence is a top priority. Parents look at school rankings, board exam results, and the qualifications of the teaching staff. Hence, when it was time for Dr Deepshikha Trishal, Pulmonologist, and Dr Naveen Kumar, Internal Medicine, to send their first-born to a formal school, they chose Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park as they had heard good things about this school.
In a candid interview, the mother talks about the teaching methodology here and the progress her children have.
How and why did you choose this branch for your children?
When we got my son – Agam Trisal Kumar, now in class IV – started his schooling at this branch from the nursery, he adapted well to the environment. At that time, my daughter – Aradhya was in another school. When we saw how good this school was, we shifted her to Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park as well.
How are they doing here?
They are doing amazing. For them, the school is like a second home. They are genuinely happy, and the teachers are not just friendly but also nurturing, almost like mothers. My colleagues have noticed a positive change in my kids’ confidence, attitude, and discipline, all thanks to this school. One of my colleagues even enrolled her child in Apeejay School, International in the IB Board, and they are also quite content with the school’s offerings.
How are the teachers and the staff at this school?
I would say that they are extremely helpful and supportive. And this is not restricted to the teachers, every person in the administration, down to the peons and guards, they are all courteous. What adds to the school’s advantage is the great campus.
Any particular teaching methodology that you think has greatly assisted in your children’s learning?
The school follows a methodology that fosters creativity and self-confidence from an early stage. This approach, combined with the dedication of the teachers, plays a crucial role in my children’s development. As I mentioned before, people ask me which school my kids are studying in as they are impressed by their demeanor.
How are both of your children performing academically, and are they actively involved in co-curricular activities?
Academically, both my children are doing well. My daughter has expressed a desire to participate in extracurricular activities like sports. She yearns for more physical activity. On the other hand, my son actively participates in co-curricular events. He frequently takes on public speaking roles and hosts annual functions. My daughter excels in singing and piano, while my son has taken up the violin.
Are you satisfied with the feedback received at parent-teacher meetings?
Parent-teacher meetings are held regularly, and although I am always informed about my children’s progress, during these meetings, our main focus is on assessing their confidence, discipline, and interactions with their peers. The teachers are incredibly supportive and responsive, even outside of scheduled meetings. If I have a query, I send a message that is answered promptly.
You and your husband, both doctors with busy schedules, how do you manage to spend quality time with your children?
Balancing our busy schedules, my husband and I have effectively divided our teaching responsibilities and household duties. This ensures that our children receive the necessary attention and support. Additionally, the school’s commitment to encouraging hard work and improvement aligns with our efforts and plays a significant role in our children’s development.
Apeejay is known for its emphasis on holistic development. How evident is this?
The school’s commitment to holistic development is abundantly clear. Through annual functions and thoughtfully chosen themes, children are exposed to important life lessons and societal issues, such as anger, greed, and jealousy. For instance, in one of the annual functions, the theme was Chanakya; the lessons were so well-depicted. It was so amazing to see students perform on this theme. It brought tears to my eyes. Moreover, my daughter actively participates in singing bhajans further emphasising the school’s holistic approach.
