In this insightful interview, Ms. Nidhi Gulati, Principal, Alpine Public School, Khurja, UP, shares the guiding principles and educational philosophy that drive her school’s approach to nurturing future global citizens. The discussion goes into the importance of fostering a balanced education through core values, social responsibility, and creative pursuits, alongside academics. Ms. Gulati also highlights the role of education in promoting social equality and national development, and how Alpine Public School integrates Indian value-based education into its curriculum. Let’s dive in!
Q. What core values and educational philosophy guide Alpine Public School Khurja’s approach to teaching and learning?
Our educational philosophy is rooted in the belief that “Education is the Key to Unlock the Golden Door of Freedom.” We aim to nurture students into physically fit, mentally strong, and emotionally balanced individuals who will excel as global citizens of tomorrow. Our approach focuses on creating a healthy and congenial environment that nurtures the creative potential of young inquisitive minds. We try to instil courage in each child, empowering them to fabricate their dreams and face life’s challenges with confidence. Our philosophy emphasizes high ethical, moral, and spiritual standards so that our students are not only academically accomplished but also principled in their actions. We are committed to lifelong learning, and developing a passion for education in students, parents, and teachers alike. Our mission is to attract exceptional students from across the globe, offering them quality education that prepares them to face future challenges with dignity, honour, and a strong sense of social responsibility.
Q. How does your School view the role of education in promoting social equality and contributing to national development?
Our School recognizes the crucial role of education in promoting social equality and contributing to national development. Through our ‘Gyan Jyoti’ program, initiated in 2010 under the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, we strive to bring the light of knowledge to the lives of underprivileged children in our community. This program provides free education, books, uniforms, and transport facilities to 125 children from the poor and backward sections of the city. The program has been instrumental in uplifting these children, enabling them to pursue their education and reach their goals. We also conduct annual tests for students in grades I to V, with successful candidates receiving scholarships to continue their education up to class 12. The success of the ‘Gyan Jyoti’ program, supported by contributions from affluent members of society, demonstrates our commitment to bridging educational disparities and fostering national development through education.
Q. What is the importance of sports and extracurricular activities in education at your School?
We believe that “a healthy body houses a healthy mind,” and we try to emphasize the importance of sports and extracurricular activities. Our school provides ample resources and facilities for both outdoor and indoor sports, ensuring that students have opportunities to develop physically and mentally. Sports are not just about physical fitness; they are also essential for instilling values such as discipline, responsibility, self-confidence, and teamwork. Our students participate in various sports under the guidance of experienced coaches, who help them hone their skills and compete at the interschool, CBSE, and state levels. The school’s commitment to sports is reflected in the remarkable achievements of our young athletes, who have consistently excelled in state-level competitions. By offering a wide range of sports and extracurricular activities, we aim to create a comprehensive and enjoyable learning experience that promotes the overall development of our students.
Q. What is the importance of ‘Creative Pursuits’ in your School’s approach to education?
We recognize the significance of ‘creativity’ in education and have carefully designed our infrastructure to support creative pursuits. We consider art, music, and dance fundamental to a child’s growth and encourage students to express themselves through these mediums. In arts and crafts, students engage in activities such as sketching, painting, and creating “Best out of Waste” projects, which enhance their dexterity and critical reflection. Music education develops skills in composition, instrument performance, and music appreciation. Dance is celebrated as a form of expression and fitness, with regular activities that boost students’ self-esteem and channel their energy positively. Additionally, our dramatics and theatre workshops introduce students to the world of performing arts, fostering teamwork and a shared sense of purpose. These creative pursuits not only enrich students’ educational experience but also contribute significantly to their overall well-being and personal development.
Q. How is social responsibility integrated into the curriculum at your school to foster ethical awareness among students?
Our School integrates ethical awareness into the curriculum through various initiatives that develop social responsibility. We believe in the power of community service to instil values and motivate students to become active leaders in their communities. From an early age, students are sensitized to care for the underprivileged, with frequent visits to orphanages and old age homes. Donation drives for books, clothes, toys, and food items are organized to encourage a spirit of giving. Our ‘Gyan Jyoti’ program, launched in 2010, provides free education and resources to 125 underprivileged children, helping them pursue their education and reach their potential. Additionally, the school actively participates in “Swachh Bharat Abhiyan” through cleanliness drives and rallies, teaching students the importance of maintaining a clean environment. The Cycling Club “Rangers” further engages students in social awareness campaigns, addressing issues such as water conservation and child labour. These initiatives reflect our commitment to nurturing socially responsible and ethically aware citizens.
Q. How does your School integrate Indian value-based education into its curriculum?
Our School integrates Indian value-based education into its curriculum by celebrating cultural and spiritual traditions that reinforce ethical values. For example, Basant Panchmi, marking the advent of spring, is celebrated with reverence for Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge and wisdom. On this occasion, students and teachers dress in yellow, symbolizing spiritual knowledge, and participate in a havan (a traditional Hindu ritual) to invoke the blessings of the Goddess. The school also organizes Saraswati Vandana, where students devotionally sing hymns to seek the Goddess’s blessings for knowledge and wisdom. These activities are part of our broader effort to inculcate values in today’s modern times, ensuring that students develop a deep respect for Indian traditions while acquiring the knowledge and wisdom necessary for their holistic development.
