This experience is written by Keerti Sheoran, a class 10 student of Sri Venkateshwar International School, Delhi, and collected by an Emerging Leader.
Keerti Sheoran.
Class 10.
Sri Venkateshwar International School, Delhi.
The faculty at my school is exceptionally knowledgeable and experienced. They are not just focused on teaching within the classroom but also extend their support beyond regular class hours. Personally, I’ve found my Hindi teacher to be incredibly helpful. Since Hindi is my additional subject, I often have to study it independently.
My teacher has been very accommodating, providing extra guidance and assistance, which has significantly improved my understanding of the subject. Additionally, the school offers remedial classes for students who may be struggling in specific subjects, which is a great initiative to ensure that every student receives the help they need to succeed academically.
However, there have been instances of favoritism that have affected the overall learning environment. It’s unfortunate that in some cases, certain students receive more attention and support while others might be ignored or forgotten about. This can lead to a sense of inequality and can be discouraging for those students who feel left out.
Another issue we face is the high turnover of teachers. There’s no predictability as to when a teacher might leave. For instance, in the past two years, my Sanskrit teacher changed twice, and last year, my physics teacher changed three times. This inconsistency in the teaching staff can disrupt the continuity of the learning experience and make it challenging for students to adapt to different teaching styles.
The infrastructure at my school is top-notch, providing a well-rounded experience for students. We have excellent sports facilities, including basketball and cricket grounds, parks for recreation, and an array of sports equipment. In addition, our school offers dedicated spaces for extracurricular activities, such as a spacious auditorium, dance, and music rooms, and a theater for creative pursuits.
The school library is well-stocked with a variety of books, and it showcases our school’s achievements. What’s more, the school utilizes modern technology with interactive smartboards for internet access and writing, and the centralized air conditioning ensures a comfortable and conducive learning environment.
While the infrastructure at my school has its strengths, there are also areas of concern. Firstly, the seating arrangement in some classrooms leaves much to be desired. The benches are uncomfortable, which can be quite distracting during long lectures, and some desks are in a state of disrepair. Additionally, the windows in certain parts of the school are a safety hazard, as they are not properly secured, posing a risk of falling through.
Furthermore, the doors in the classrooms do not provide effective sound insulation, which can be disruptive to the learning process as noise from adjacent rooms can easily filter through. Lastly, the school’s auditorium, while valuable for various events, is not adequately spacious enough to accommodate the seating needs of two grades at once. This limitation can be a challenge during school gatherings or performances, as it often results in overcrowding and discomfort for the attendees.
The student-to-teacher ratio at my school is approximately 35 students to 1 teacher per subject. Whether this ratio is considered good or not can vary based on individual preferences and educational needs. Some students may find this ratio to be favorable, as it allows for a diverse classroom environment with opportunities for peer interaction and group discussions. Others might prefer smaller class sizes for more personalized attention. It ultimately depends on your learning style and what you value most in your educational experience.
Evaluating the student-to-teacher ratio, which is approximately 35 students to 1 teacher per subject, can be a matter of personal perspective. Some students may see it as a disadvantage due to limited individual attention, especially in subjects where they might need extra support. On the other hand, others may find this ratio acceptable, appreciating the opportunity for collaborative learning and diverse classroom dynamics. It ultimately depends on your unique learning preferences and the level of support you require. The school could benefit from more teaching assistants to further reduce the ratio.
My school offers a wide range of initiatives and amenities to enrich the student experience. In terms of extracurricular activities, there are opportunities for sports, clubs, and cultural events, fostering a holistic approach to education and personal development. Additionally, my school has a unique and valuable resource – a psychology lab.
This lab is accessible to all students, providing a safe and welcoming space where anyone can walk in and share their feelings or concerns. Such an initiative not only supports students’ emotional well-being but also promotes a culture of openness and mental health awareness within the school community. These amenities contribute to a well-rounded and supportive educational environment.
While my school offers many positive aspects, there are certain improvements I believe would enhance the overall educational experience. Firstly, I would have liked to see more transparency in the grading and evaluation processes. Often, it can be challenging to understand how grades are determined, and a clearer explanation of the criteria would be beneficial. This transparency would not only reduce confusion but also help students set realistic academic goals and work more effectively toward them.
Additionally, I believe that enhanced communication between the school administration, faculty, and students is crucial. It’s essential for students to have a voice in shaping their educational experience, and improved communication channels would facilitate this. This could involve regular feedback sessions or forums where students can express their concerns and ideas. Such open dialogue would not only foster a stronger sense of community but also lead to more effective problem-solving and decision-making within the school. These changes, while minor, would contribute to a more positive and enriching educational journey for all students at my school.
8 out of 10.