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

Merging Forward and Backward Thinking in Education - Gurdeep Kaur

Institutions are created with a bigger purpose and must serve a transformative purpose. But how? They should follow a comprehensive approach: Merging Forward and Backward Thinking in Education.

Backward Thinking: Start with the Nation, End with the Child

• Start with Nation: What Citizens Do We Want?

The first step is to envision the kind of citizens the nation needs. What skills, values, and character traits should they possess to contribute to the nation's goals—economic growth, technological advancement, social harmony, or sustainability? 

• Move to Society: What Role Will Citizens Play?

Once we have a clear vision of the ideal citizen, we consider how these individuals will serve society. Education must equip students with academic knowledge, social responsibility, community service, and civic engagement. 

• Design the School: How Will Education Foster These Goals?

The next step is to design an educational system that supports these larger societal and national visions. Schools must foster an environment that nurtures intellectual, emotional, and social development. 

• End with the Child: Tailoring Education to the Individual

Finally, backward thinking brings the focus to the child. The educational system should be designed to cater to students' diverse needs, ensuring that each child receives the tools, skills, and knowledge needed to thrive in the world. 

Forward Thinking: Start with the Child, End with the Nation 

• Start with the Child: Equip for Real-World Challenges

Schools must prepare students academically and for the challenges they will face in society. This includes developing critical skills like adaptability, communication, and collaboration. 

• Move to the School: Implementing the Framework

Once students have the right mindset and skills, schools must adapt the curriculum to future needs, embrace innovative teaching practices, and ensure that students thrive in an inclusive environment. 

• Focus on Society: Preparing Students to Contribute

Schools must engage students in community service, global citizenship, and projects that address local and international challenges, ensuring they are ready to succeed and make meaningful contributions to the world.

• End with the Nation: Building a Workforce for the Future

The final goal of forward-thinking is to ensure that students are prepared to contribute to the nation's future success. 

To conclude, an institution must adopt an integrated approach that combines backward thinking (planning) and forward-thinking (implementation), keeping the child at the centre. As Shomie Das, The Man Who Saw Tomorrow, said, the meaning of education can be summed up in five words: the child at the center—whether you look backward or forward.

Gurdeep Kaur
The Teacher's Centre
Learning Forward India Foundation

GK@LearningForward.org.in

My Good School Retreat:2024 - Neeraj Agrahari

The experience has been nothing short of transformative. Visiting Arthur Foot Academy (AFA) and The Doon School taught us the essence of holistic education, creativity, and the joy of giving back. Interactions with inspiring leaders like Sandeep Dutt sir, Manisha ma’am, Feroza ma’am, Jugjiv sir, Kunal sir, and Devgan sir deepened our understanding of teamwork, leadership, and empathy.  

The cultural exchanges, insightful discussions, and enriching sessions have broadened my perspective on how education shapes lives beyond academics. Activities like the treasure hunt and art sessions highlighted the importance of collaboration and creativity. Exploring AFA’s enthusiasm and The Doon School's extraordinary facilities inspired me to strive for excellence and give back to the community.  

A heartfelt thank you to our mentors for their guidance, and to AFA for showing us the power of joy in small acts of kindness. This journey has left a lasting impact, motivating me to grow and contribute meaningfully.

Thank You and Jai hind 

Neeraj Agrahari 

Sunbeam School Lahartara