‘Value education is the only road to a fair tomorrow’

At the primary and middle level,we lay stress on the child’s imagination and creativity and discourage rote learning. The children are continuously assessed and tested on the basis of their reading and understanding only. We introduce languages like French,Sanskrit and Punjabi right from class V. Worksheets and class tests are regular features for constant monitoring. Indian,western,vocal and instrumental music,dance,yoga and martial arts are a part of the curriculum as well. Students are exposed to various co-curricular activities through clubs and competitions.

At the secondary level,more stress is laid on extensive practice. Being an ICSE school,subjects like History and Civics,Geography,Physics,Chemistry,Biology and English are taught in detail so that,after class X,our students are more equipped to face the forthcoming competitive exams. At the secondary level,we offer Science and Commerce streams. Also,we offer the option of French,Home Science and Physical Education. Revision classes start right from the beginning of session. We have a resource room for special children where syllabus is formulated as per the students’ individual capability. A qualified school counsellor is present to provide guidance at every step.

How do you feel about the rule that you cannot fail a student till class VIII? Do you see this as a lowering of educational standards or as an important rule?

I feel this rule helps in improving the literacy rate of the country. I believe a number of factors play their part if a child performs poorly. Failing them is not the solution. Problems at home or a child’s tendency to ignore studies can be tackled by counselling of parents,students as well as teachers by the school counsellor. These children can be brought back to the mainstream. The only condition is that the effort has to be a joint one with utmost sincerity. Once we bring them at par with other kids,possibly before entering class IX,educational standards will not be compromised. We have to deal with our short comings and not dismiss them.

What are your views regarding the RTE Act providing 25 per cent reservation to students from the lower rung of society? What measures has your school taken to achieve that?

RTE Act providing 25 per cent reservation is a welcome step. We educationists are responsible to groom the future generation of this country and not only our own institutions. However,some practical problems are encountered in the process that can be handled by counselling parents and students. We give free education under RTE Act in the strictest sense of the word.

Is the current grading system better for students?

I feel the marking system is better as it does justice to all students and does not bracket a number of them under the same category. This is true especially for the bright students as it allows them to get their due.

Is an adequate teacher-pupil ratio maintained in your school? Do you ensure sufficient training is provided to teachers?

We maintain an adequate ratio as prescribed by ICSE board. We have been extremely careful in the selection of our teaching staff,which is experienced,well-qualified and trained. They are exposed to seminars,workshops that benefit them and the students.

How much importance do you give to sports and other extra-curricular activities in the school?

Sports and extra curricular activities play an equally important role as academics in a child’s life. A personality develops over a period of time only if a child gets ample exposure to other activities. Hidden talent can be identified and thereby groomed only if required exposure is provided to the child.

What are your views on value education? What is its importance in today’s times?

If we aim to have a fair world for tomorrow’s generation,then value education is the only road to it. It should not only be preached but also practiced by the elders — both teachers and parents. If we set a negative example we can teach nothing. In my view,value education is of utmost importance. We can dream of a corruption and crime-free India only if we give value education to our children. Children should be able to differentiate between right and wrong.

What is your school’s vision for the next 10 years?

Our vision is to develop an environment that will induce passion for knowledge and progress. A child should strive to be imaginative,creative and innovative. This environment and approach should make a child not only a successful individual but also a good,responsible and disciplined human being who is sensitive towards his family,society and surroundings in general.

We intend to remain technically advanced and up to date to provide the required edge and exposure a child needs in this ever progressing world.

A schools’ initiative from

The Indian express