In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, the need for holistic development is more critical than ever. In this interview, Dr. Sheenam Samuel, Principal, SRM Convent School, Ludhiana, Punjab, discusses the school’s comprehensive approach to nurturing every aspect of a student’s growth. She shares insights into how the school’s philosophy and mission foster an inclusive and nurturing environment. She emphasizes that through a balanced approach integrating academics, co-curricular activities, and a strong focus on well-being, SRM Convent School aims to cultivate well-rounded individuals ready to thrive in all aspects of life. Let’s dive in!
Q. What are the school’s philosophy and mission, and how do you integrate them into the school environment to promote holistic education?
The philosophy and mission of SRM Convent School revolve around fostering the holistic development of students. Our guiding principle, “Quality Education for All in a Secure and Caring Environment,” reflects our dedication to creating a nurturing and inclusive atmosphere for every child.
SRM Convent School is committed to optimizing teaching and learning while facilitating the overall well-being and development of our students. Our approach emphasizes the holistic growth of each child, ensuring they thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. We believe the most effective learning environment encourages cooperation rather than individual competition, fostering a sense of community and mutual support among students.
To integrate our philosophy and mission into the school environment, we offer numerous opportunities for students to excel in both academics and co-curricular activities. Academically, we provide a range of programs such as Olympiads in various subjects and scholastic tests, which challenge students to expand their knowledge and skills. In addition to these academic pursuits, we emphasize the importance of co-curricular activities by organizing inter-class, inter-house, and inter-school competitions, including events like the Shaodya competitions. These activities not only enhance students’ talents but also promote teamwork, leadership, and a spirit of healthy competition.
Through this balanced approach, SRM Convent School aims to ensure that our students receive a well-rounded education, preparing them for future success while nurturing their overall development in a supportive and caring environment.
Q. Can you explain the importance of STEM education at your school and how it is implemented?
STEM education plays a crucial role in enhancing students’ success at SRM Convent School by developing logical and critical thinking skills. Through STEM, students learn to understand concepts from different perspectives, allowing them to apply their knowledge to real-world situations effectively.
At SRM Convent School, we provide a robust platform for STEM education. Our approach emphasizes the development of strong communication skills and nurtures critical thinking, thereby strengthening students’ cognitive abilities. We place a strong emphasis on team collaboration, which not only improves language proficiency but also promotes the effective use of technology.
To further support our STEM initiatives, we organize various competitions, such as the STEM Olympiad in partnership with SOF (Science Olympiad Foundation) and International Silverzone. These events encourage creativity and curiosity among students, motivating them to explore and innovate.
Q. How does your school incorporate AI and technology into the curriculum to enhance students’ learning experiences?
At our school, AI integration begins as a dedicated subject from Grade 9, providing students with a foundational understanding of artificial intelligence as a potential career path. However, we introduce the basics of AI, such as Python programming, starting from Grade 6. This early exposure helps students gradually build their knowledge and skills in this crucial field.
Incorporating AI and technology into our curriculum offers SRMians personalized learning experiences, making education more efficient and tailored to individual needs. AI also plays a crucial role in enhancing student support by providing tools and resources that adapt to each student’s learning pace and style.
To further enrich students’ learning experiences, we incorporate projects like multimedia presentations, software development, video recordings, and podcasts. These projects allow students to express themselves creatively and apply their technological skills in various ways.
Additionally, our teachers receive ongoing training and professional development through webinars, seminars, and workshops organized by CBSE (CBPs). This ensures that they are well-equipped to guide students effectively and integrate AI and technology into their teaching practices.
Q. What values are key to creating a positive and inclusive school culture, and how do you cultivate a sense of community among students, parents, and staff?
The school leader plays a crucial role in creating a positive and inclusive school culture, essential for cultivating a sense of community among students, parents, and staff. At SRM Convent School, we engage students, parents, faculty, and support staff in activities that foster mutual respect and understanding across all community members.
We strive to create a strong sense of togetherness and unity within the school, establishing a positive learning environment where respect, kindness, and collaboration thrive. This culture is manifested through various events such as Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs), the Annual Function, and Cultural Fest. These events provide opportunities for everyone to come together, celebrate, and learn from one another.
Teamwork is at the heart of our approach, and we focus on building strong relationships among students, as well as between students and teachers. These relationships are based on mutual understanding and respect, which we begin to instil from a very young age, starting in kindergarten. By nurturing these values early on, we ensure that students grow up with a deep sense of community and collaboration.
The key values of respect, kindness, and collaboration are central to creating a positive and inclusive school culture at SRM Convent School. Through engagement in school activities and events, we cultivate a strong sense of community, starting from the earliest stages of education and continuing through every level of schooling.
Q. How do you prioritize and support student well-being and mental health at your school?
At SRM Convent School, we prioritize and support student well-being and mental health by creating a friendly and supportive environment for both students and parents. The school management and the principal are easily approachable, ensuring open lines of communication for any concerns or issues that may arise.
We actively work to reduce student stress by providing various opportunities for physical activities such as outdoor games and dance, which help in relieving stress and promoting overall well-being. Additionally, we foster positive relationships between students and teachers, creating a supportive and nurturing school community.
Recognizing the significant impact of mental health on the learning and teaching process, SRM Convent School offers mental health support services, including counselling. These services are designed to help students navigate any mental health challenges they may face.
For instance, we had a Grade 6 student who was experiencing trauma due to his parents’ divorce. This situation had a profound effect on his thoughts, emotions, behaviour, and academic performance, as well as his social interactions. Through dedicated counselling sessions for both the student and his parents, we were able to facilitate positive changes in his outlook and behaviour, ultimately improving his academic performance and daily life.
Q. What are your visions for future initiatives to support the holistic development of students?
At SRM Convent School, our vision for future initiatives to support the holistic development of students encompasses multiple dimensions of excellence, including intellectual, social, emotional, and physical development. We are committed to helping our students reach the pinnacle of success in a rapidly changing world.
Guided by experienced mentors, associates, and teachers, our students, whom we proudly call SRMians, are encouraged to excel in all fields. Our holistic approach goes beyond academics to include a diverse array of activities. Our timetable integrates dance, indoor and outdoor games, music, arts and crafts, karate, meditation, and yoga.
By providing a well-rounded education that balances academic rigour with creative and physical pursuits, we aim to ensure that our students develop into well-rounded individuals ready to face the challenges and opportunities of the future.
