‘What I appreciate most is how closely his teacher observes him’

After her son completed senior KG, the family was looking for a school for Class I. This is when a neighbour recommended Apeejay School, Greater Noida. The family visited several schools and were welcomed warmly everywhere. But when they entered Apeejay School, they felt something that stayed with them.

“There was a positive feeling, and the surroundings felt like a school. As a parent, you want the best education for your child, but you also trust your instinct. That feeling helped me choose this school,” shares Dr Saumya Sisodia, whose son, Shivanand Singh, is studying here, in a candid interview, among other things.

What matters most to you when it comes to his education?

I am an assistant professor at Gautam Buddha University, and my mother was also a lecturer in education. Education has always been a part of my life. For my son, I want learning to be something he enjoys. Sometimes we learn things simply because we are expected to, even when we do not understand or connect with them. I want him to feel interested in what he is learning. The connection between a teacher and a child is very important to me. He formed that connection quite soon at this school, which reassured me that I had made the right choice.

What does he enjoy most about going to school?

He loves playing, especially on the slides. He also enjoys yoga and talks about it at home. Learning through activities interests him. When I pick him up, he tells me about something he has made or tried for the first time. I enjoy hearing those little accounts of his day.

How have his teachers helped him settle into Class I?

What I appreciate most is how closely his teacher observes him. During our conversations, she shares specific details about him rather than simply saying that he is doing well. We recognise those observations because we see the same things at home. That makes her feedback useful to us. Being a teacher myself, I understand how much attention this requires. Young children come from different family backgrounds, and many cannot yet find the words to express their feelings. Their teachers have to understand them, help them settle in and guide their learning. I have great respect for that work.

What changes have you noticed in his learning and independence?

The most significant change is that he can now read by himself. His reading has improved, and seeing him do it independently means a great deal to me. His handwriting has also improved considerably. These are clear changes that I can see in his everyday work. He is very interested in participating in all events as well. He has taken part in almost every activity and has won prizes too. I am happy to see how eager he is to join in.

What would you like to say about the teachers?

I deeply appreciate their hard work. As a parent, nurturing my child is my responsibility. Teachers take on that responsibility for many children, each with different needs and ways of expressing themselves. That demands patience, care and close attention. I feel that no salary can fully match the effort they put into their work.