In this interview, Ms. Anjali Massey, Principal, St. George’s School, Alaknanda, New Delhi, provides valuable insights into the school’s educational philosophy and practices. Ms. Massey emphasizes the importance of adaptability as a critical skill for students in today’s rapidly evolving landscape. She discusses the school’s commitment to fostering leadership qualities, addressing diverse learning needs, and integrating social responsibility into the curriculum. Furthermore, she highlights the significance of co-curricular activities in developing well-rounded individuals equipped for future challenges. Let’s dive in!
Q. What do you believe is the most critical skill for students to develop in today’s evolving educational landscape?
In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing world, adaptability stands out as the most crucial skill for students to develop. The rapid advancement of technology and the dynamic nature of global society require students to be flexible in their thinking and learning approaches. At St. George’s School, we prioritize teaching students how to learn effectively rather than just focusing on the information itself. We try to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, to empower students to analyse information from various sources. By instilling adaptability alongside creativity and resilience, we try to ensure that our students are not only ready for current challenges but also equipped for future opportunities that we cannot yet foresee.
Q. How does St. George’s School foster leadership qualities in its students?
Developing leadership qualities in students is a cornerstone of our educational philosophy. We firmly believe that every student possesses the potential to be a leader, and we create a supportive environment for them to explore this potential. Through various initiatives, we provide opportunities for students to take responsibility, make decisions, and collaborate with their peers. Organizing school events, leading community service projects, and participating in debates are just a few of the ways students can step into leadership roles. Moreover, we emphasize that true leadership involves empathy and integrity. For example, during our ‘street play competition’, students tackled social issues like road safety and the dangers of addiction, demonstrating their ability to advocate for positive change in society. By nurturing these qualities, we try to prepare our students to be responsible leaders both within the school environment and in the broader community.
As part of the Adolescent Peer Educators Leadership Program in Life Skills, Holistic Health & Wellbeing, peer leaders conduct modules on essential topics, raising awareness about education, mental health, child abuse, domestic violence, ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao,’ menstrual hygiene, and financial literacy. This peer-led approach not only encourages deep engagement but also cultivates a sense of ownership and responsibility among students, nurturing their leadership qualities as they navigate through essential life skills. We provide an exceptional platform for our students to not only participate in but also organize the Intra Model United Nations (MUN) conference, allowing them to engage in global issues, develop diplomacy skills, and sharpen their ability to think critically and negotiate effectively. Our students also received training through Scholastics as part of the Scholastic Internship Program. This initiative focuses on promoting reading and includes a range of engaging activities designed to foster a love of reading among students. By participating in this program, our students develop essential skills that enhance their understanding of literature and contribute to a vibrant reading culture within the school community.
Q. How does the school address the diverse learning needs of its students?
At our school, we recognize that each student learns differently, and we are committed to meeting their diverse learning needs through a differentiated teaching approach. This method allows us to tailor learning experiences to accommodate various learning styles and paces. Our dedicated teachers employ a range of instructional strategies, including group work, visual aids, technology integration, and hands-on activities, to engage students effectively. For example, our Multiple Intelligence Camp exemplifies this commitment, offering activities ranging from pottery to robotics, enabling students to explore different intelligences—whether musical, technical, or interpersonal. We also provide remedial support for those needing extra assistance and advanced enrichment programs for students excelling in specific subjects. Our goal is to create an inclusive environment where every student feels supported and challenged to reach their full potential, ensuring that learning is a personalized journey for all. We also embrace the philosophy of experiential learning, as demonstrated in a recent project on the 3 R’s—Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle—designed to deepen students’ understanding of environmental sustainability through direct experience and reflection.
Q. How does your school integrate social responsibility into its curriculum?
Social responsibility is deeply embedded in our curriculum at St. George’s School, reflecting our belief that education should not only focus on academic achievements but also cultivate a sense of duty toward society. We encourage students to actively engage with the world around them through community service programs, environmental projects, and workshops addressing pressing social issues like gender equality and cyber safety. For example, the Sashakti self-defence program, conducted by the Delhi Police at our school, trained young girls in martial arts, empowering them to protect themselves in emergencies and build confidence. Our participation in the National Level Painting Competition, celebrating the 50th anniversary of Project Tiger, raised awareness about wildlife conservation through artistic expression.
Through initiatives like the Cyber Safety Awareness program, also in collaboration with the Delhi Police, students gain essential knowledge to navigate the complexities of the digital world, equipping them with practical skills to face future challenges. These initiatives allow students to understand their roles in creating a better society, promoting environmental stewardship, and advocating for social change. By integrating these values into our learning framework, we prepare students to make a positive impact on their communities and the world. Our school is also committed to supporting individuals with special needs. In line with this commitment, we organized an Autism Awareness Program aimed at raising awareness, fostering understanding, and promoting inclusivity within the school community—ensuring that students with autism and other special needs receive the support and attention they deserve.
Q. In what ways does your school prepare students for success beyond academics?
At our school, we understand that success in life extends far beyond academic excellence. Our holistic approach aims to develop well-rounded individuals by focusing on essential life skills such as communication, teamwork, and emotional intelligence. Through a variety of co-curricular programs, we encourage students to build confidence, resilience, and a strong work ethic. For example, our Skill Training Workshop for students in grades VI to VIII teaches practical skills like mask crafting and block printing, fostering creativity and critical thinking. Additionally, initiatives like our Commerce Exhibition allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world contexts, presenting projects on business studies and economics. These hands-on experiences equip students with vital skills and insights, preparing them to navigate various career paths after school.
We also leverage our robust alumni network to provide mentorship and guidance, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their future endeavours. Furthermore, participation in the Youth Parliament offers our students opportunities to gain practical knowledge and skills beyond academics, developing real-world understanding. We actively encourage students to engage in the creation of art-integrated projects, enhancing their learning experiences by fostering creativity and deepening their understanding of the subject matter.
Q. What role do extracurricular activities play in the holistic development of students?
Extracurricular activities are integral to the holistic development of students at our school, offering invaluable opportunities for personal growth beyond the classroom. These activities provide a balanced approach to education, allowing students to explore their interests, develop new skills, and foster essential qualities such as teamwork, leadership, and perseverance. We offer a diverse range of extracurricular options, from sports and drama to art and music, catering to various interests and talents. For instance, our Inter-House Dramatization Competition, Inter-House Dance Competition, Inter-House Quiz Competition, Inter-House Flower Arrangement Competition, Inter-House Football Competition, Inter-House Poetry Recitation Competition, and Inter-House Folk Song Competition not only allow students to showcase their skills but also help them cultivate strong ethical values through moral-themed stories.
Engaging in these experiences contributes to building self-confidence, enhancing social skills, and promoting mental well-being among students. Through participation in such activities, students learn the importance of discipline, commitment, and balance—qualities that will serve them well throughout life. We actively encourage participation in various interschool and zonal competitions, which offer valuable exposure and enrich learning by promoting healthy competition and personal development. Their achievements in these events bring pride and recognition to the school.
