Friday, April 18, 2025

An Experience of Heart, Purpose, and Gratitude - My Good School Retreat 2025

Sunbeam School Ballia


Coming to Khan Farm for the My Good School Retreat 2025 began as a step into the unknown. I wasn't entirely sure what to expect, but within just three days, the purpose of this journey became clear to me. This retreat was thoughtfully designed around the four pillars of holistic development—Service, Skill, Sports, and Study—and it offered a transformative experience that I will carry with me for a long time.

I had the privilege of attending the retreat along with my Activity in-charge, Ms. Neha Srivastava. One of the most impactful parts of our visit was spending time at The Arthur Foot Academy, a school located on the quiet, green outskirts of Haridwar, near Rajaji National Park. The place itself is breathtaking, surrounded by rolling hills, fresh mountain air, and endless greenery. The area around the school is serene and pollution-free, a perfect setting for young minds to grow. Arthur Foot Academy, established just ten years ago, serves the children of the Gujar community with limited resources but unlimited potential.

Walking through the school, I was struck by the stark contrast to what we often take for granted. I have always been part of schools blessed with strong infrastructure, qualified educators, digitally enabled classrooms, and supportive parents. But here, at Arthur Foot Academy, the scenario was quite the opposite. Yet, in this difference, I saw something powerful: hope.

The students were full of curiosity and energy. The teachers were passionate, striving to do their best with what they had. Being there made me truly grateful for the opportunities we enjoy at our school, for the systems that support us, and for the kind of environment we often overlook. This experience awakened a sense of responsibility in me. I feel compelled to support this school in whatever way I can. One immediate way I can contribute is by helping their teachers with simple and effective ways to create lesson plans, making learning more structured and engaging.

We plan to return for another retreat in November, and our next visit brings new steps toward growth for us and for them.

I am sincerely thankful to Mr. Sandeep Dutt and his team for giving us such a phenomenal opportunity to work with them. 

I am also thankful to my Director, Sir, Dr. Kunwar Arun Singh, and our Principal, Dr. Arpita Singh, for believing in me and giving me this excellent opportunity to be part of such a meaningful journey. Your guidance and vision make us strive for a better tomorrow, not just for ourselves, but for others too.

This retreat was not just a visit—it was a calling. A reminder to give, to grow, and to be grateful.

Shahar Banu 
Dean of Academics and Global Coordinator 
Sunbeam School Ballia

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