In this insightful interview, Dr. Sara George Muthoot, Director, St. George’s School & Paul George Global School, New Delhi, enumerates the rich heritage and core values that have shaped St. George’s School into the educational institution it is today. She highlights how the school blends traditional values with modern education to nurture holistic development in students. Dr. Muthoot sheds light on the school’s foundation, its commitment to academic excellence, and the emphasis on character-building. She discusses how St. George’s incorporates cutting-edge technology and STEM education into its curriculum to ensure students are well-prepared for future challenges. The interview also explores the school’s focus on co-curricular activities that promote overall development, alongside efforts to engage parents and alumni in creating a supportive learning environment. Let’s dive in!
Q. St. George’s School has a rich history. Could you tell us about the school’s foundation and its core values?
St. George’s School was founded in 1962 by Late Rev. Fr. V.C. George, a Christian Missionary priest from the Indian Orthodox Church. It is a minority institution run by the Christian community and affiliated with the CBSE. The school came under the aegis of The Muthoot Group in 1982, marking a significant period of growth and recognition in Delhi. We blend traditional values with modern education, maintaining a unique mix of old and new. Our core value orientation emphasizes respect for elders, reflected in the motto: “Mathru Devo Bhava, Pithru Devo Bhava, Guru Devo Bhava.” We encourage students to “Spread the Light” of knowledge, wisdom, compassion, and humanitarianism. More than academic success, we aim to mould students into responsible citizens who are compassionate and driven by a sense of purpose. Our holistic approach seeks to develop well-rounded individuals ready to contribute to society.
Q. How does the school ensure academic excellence while maintaining a focus on values and character building?
At St. George’s School, we strive for academic excellence while maintaining a focus on the holistic development of each student. While academics are crucial, we believe in shaping character, morals, and values equally. Our teaching methods incorporate the latest approaches, ensuring seamless learning for all students. We emphasize the social, emotional, and spiritual growth of each child, providing them with the tools to thrive in every aspect of life. Our mission is to create learning experiences that go beyond textbook knowledge, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and innovation. By balancing academics with character-building, we mould students into resilient, well-rounded individuals. We instil a sense of integrity, respect, and patriotism, preparing them to take up roles of leadership and responsibility in society. Our goal is to ensure that every student realizes their full potential and becomes a productive, compassionate, and patriotic citizen of India.
Q. Technology plays a big role in modern education. How is St. George’s School incorporating technology into its curriculum?
Technology is a fundamental part of the education system at St. George’s School. We have five computer laboratories, equipped with over 200 computer systems, where students from various age groups are exposed to programming languages and creative software. Students from classes XI and XII use the latest programming tools like Java and C++ in their dedicated CBSE labs. Additionally, our junior labs focus on software like Corel Draw, Adobe Flash, and MS Office. This hands-on approach encourages students to explore and innovate.
In line with our commitment to integrating technology into education, we have recently installed SmartLED panels in all classrooms. These panels enhance the teaching-learning experience by providing interactive and engaging content, nurturing collaboration, and preparing students for the digital age.
Through these technological resources, we aim to equip students with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world. Our goal is to make them proficient in technology while fostering creativity and problem-solving abilities, preparing them for future challenges in any field they pursue.
Q. How do you ensure that students receive a well-rounded education, beyond academics?
At St. George’s School, we believe in offering a well-rounded education that goes beyond the confines of the classroom. Co-curricular activities are integral to our student’s growth and development. We offer a wide range of activities, from sports to music, drama, art, storytelling, and even nature walks. These activities help students explore their interests, build self-confidence, and develop teamwork and leadership skills. Our programs allow students to express their creativity while also reinforcing essential life skills such as discipline, collaboration, and communication. These attributes are invaluable as they prepare to enter the world as well-rounded, confident individuals. We ensure that every student has the opportunity to participate in activities that interest them, encouraging personal growth alongside academic learning. This holistic approach helps create individuals who are not only academically strong but also socially and emotionally balanced, prepared to face future challenges.
Q. How does St. George’s School integrate STEM education into its curriculum, and what impact does it have on students?
At St. George’s School, STEM education is a significant focus of our curriculum. We believe that integrating Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics fosters a comprehensive understanding of real-world problems and solutions. Our well-equipped science laboratories offer students practical, hands-on experiences to explore scientific concepts. We have refurbished our Chemistry and Biology labs with state-of-the-art equipment, further enhancing opportunities for scientific exploration, curiosity, and innovation. The computer labs are designed to teach programming languages and software applications that encourage problem-solving and creativity. We have refurbished our Chemistry and Biology labs with state-of-the-art equipment and technology. These upgraded facilities provide students with hands-on learning experiences and foster scientific exploration, encouraging curiosity and innovation.
By incorporating STEM education, we aim to develop students who are not only academically proficient but also innovative thinkers ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow’s technological world. Our goal is to inspire students to think outside the box, equipping them with the tools necessary to succeed in careers that demand a strong foundation in STEM fields. This holistic approach prepares them for a rapidly evolving global landscape.
Q. How do you engage with parents and alumni in the school community?
We place great importance on maintaining strong relationships with both parents and alumni at St. George’s School. Our online Parents’ Zone allows parents to stay updated on their child’s progress and school events. Regular Parent-Teacher meetings are held to ensure transparent and open communication between the school and parents. We believe that a collaborative approach is key to a child’s development, and parental involvement plays a
crucial role in shaping a student’s success. Additionally, our Alumni Association, established in 2004, fosters a strong bond between the school and its former students. Alumni are proud ambassadors of the school and help promote the Georgean spirit, serving as role models for current students. The association organizes events and activities that keep alumni connected to the school, encouraging them to contribute to the ongoing legacy of St. George’s. This continuous engagement enriches our school community and helps students feel part of a larger family.
