Learning Life Skills Through Sunday School - Sunbeam School Lahartara

 

Sunday school gives us more than just knowledge—it helps us build important life skills. Through stories, discussions, and reflections, we learn how to think deeply, express ourselves, and connect lessons to real-life situations. It teaches us values like courage, patience, kindness, and gratitude, which guide our everyday actions. Sunday school also strengthens our ability to listen, understand others, and grow as individuals. Each session becomes a step toward becoming more thoughtful, confident, and aware, helping us develop skills that shape both our character and our future.

Learning to Write Book Reviews - Lotus Petal Foundation

In today’s session, Kartik Sir taught us how to write a book review. He explained that a good review should clearly explain what the book is about, including both facts (what actually happened in the book) and opinions (what we think about it). Sir told us that a review should not leave the reader confused and that it should help the reader understand the story better. We learned that facts and opinions are different, and our opinions should be expressed clearly without being mistaken for facts. This session helped me understand how to write my thoughts more confidently and clearly. I enjoyed learning and will use these tips in future writing.

Thank you 😊
Akrit Tiwari – 5C

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Today’s session with Kartik Sir was very interesting. He taught us how to write a book review. We learned that while writing a review, we should be careful that the reader does not get confused about what is fact and what is our opinion. Sir told us that a good review contains both a clear summary of the book and our honest views about it. We also learned how to confidently express our opinions without confusing them with facts. This session was very helpful and enjoyable, and I learned how to write better feedback on stories.

Thanks ✨
Disha – 5A

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In today’s session, Kartik Sir explained how to write a book review correctly. He told us that when writing a review, we should be clear so that the reader does not misunderstand our writing. We learned the difference between fact and opinion — facts are information from the book, and opinions are our personal ideas about it. Sir also encouraged us to express our thoughts confidently in the review. The session was fun and useful, and it helped me understand how to think and write more clearly.

Thanks 😊
Vansh – 5C

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Today’s session with Kartik Sir was very informative. He explained how to write a proper book review. I learned that a book review is not just about saying whether we liked the book or not, but also about explaining why. Sir told us that we must clearly separate facts from opinions so that the reader does not get confused. Facts are true details from the book, while opinions are our personal thoughts. This session helped me understand how to think carefully before writing. I really enjoyed learning this new skill.

Aditya Yadav – 5C

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In today’s session, we learned about writing book reviews. Kartik Sir guided us step by step and told us that a good review should have a short summary of the story and our honest opinion about it. He also explained that there should not be any ambiguity in our writing. Readers should clearly understand what fact is and what opinion is. I learned that expressing opinions confidently is important, but we should not present them as facts. This session improved my writing skills and confidence.

Adarsh – 5B

GSA Reflections – 15th Feb

Today’s session was very knowledgeable and interesting. Brinda Ma’am read a chapter from My Family and Other Animals titled “A Treasure of Spiders.” The story is about a boy named Gerald who lives in Corfu, Greece. He goes swimming with his dog Roger in a beautiful bay. After swimming, he feels hungry and decides to visit Yanni, an old shepherd. Gerald cleverly wakes Yanni by making his dog bark.

Yanni warmly welcomes him and offers him food and wine. He shows Gerald a scorpion preserved in olive oil and explains that the oil can be used as a remedy for scorpion stings. He also shares a frightening story about a shepherd who died due to a scorpion sting in his ear. The chapter encourages critical thinking as Gerald observes nature and reflects on Yanni’s traditional beliefs about scorpions.

After that, Manisha Ma’am read a Hindi story titled “Shimla Mein Khel Ka Maidan.” The story is about a boy’s experiences in a boarding school in Shimla. It describes the house system and mentions a character named Moni Baba. The narrator talks about his school life and playing football as a goalkeeper.

Thank you 😊
Aditya Yadav – 5C

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Today’s session was very knowledgeable and engaging. Brinda Ma’am read a chapter from My Family and Other Animals titled “A Treasure of Spiders.” The story describes Gerald’s life in Corfu. After swimming with his dog, Roger, he visits an old shepherd named Yanni, who warmly welcomes him and offers him food. Yanni shows Gerald a preserved scorpion in olive oil and explains its medicinal uses. The story also promotes critical thinking, as Gerald balances folklore with observation and reasoning.

Later, Manisha Ma’am read the Hindi story “Shimla Mein Khel Ka Maidan.” It talks about a boy’s boarding school life in Shimla, the house system, and his experience as a football goalkeeper. The story highlights teamwork and discipline.

Thank you 😊
Disha – 5A

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Today’s session was very interesting and enjoyable. Brinda Ma’am read the chapter “A Treasure of Spiders.” Gerald explores life in Corfu, Greece. After swimming with his dog Roger, he visits Yanni, an old shepherd, who warmly welcomes him. Yanni shows him a scorpion preserved in olive oil and explains how it is used as a remedy. He also shares a frightening story that made the chapter memorable.

Later, Manisha Ma’am read the Hindi story “Shimla Mein Khel Ka Maidan.” It described a boy’s boarding school life in Shimla, the house system, and his experience playing football as a goalkeeper. The story highlighted teamwork and discipline.
Overall, the session was fun and helped us learn through stories. 

😊
Adarsh – 5B

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Today’s session was very interesting and enjoyable. Brinda Ma’am read the chapter “A Treasure of Spiders.” After swimming with his dog Roger, Gerald visits an old shepherd named Yanni, who warmly welcomes him. Yanni shows him a scorpion preserved in olive oil and explains how it is used as a remedy. He also shares a frightening story that made the chapter memorable.

Then Manisha Ma’am read the Hindi story “Shimla Mein Khel Ka Maidan.” It discusses life in a boarding school in Shimla, the house system, and the narrator’s experience playing football as a goalkeeper. The story emphasised teamwork and discipline.
Thank you 😊

Akrit Tiwari – 5C

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Today’s session was very interesting and enjoyable. Brinda Ma’am read the chapter “A Treasure of Spiders.” After swimming with his dog Roger, Gerald visits an old shepherd named Yanni, who warmly welcomes him. Yanni shows him a scorpion preserved in olive oil and explains how it is used as a remedy. He also shares a frightening story, which made the chapter memorable.

Then Manisha Ma’am read the Hindi story “Shimla Mein Khel Ka Maidan,” which is about life in a boarding school in Shimla.

Thank you.
Vansh – 5C

Reflection on My Good School Session- Sunbeam School, Ballia

Today’s session at the Good School was truly inspiring. The YES workshop helped me understand the importance of communication and positive thinking. I felt motivated to stay confident and try my best in everything I do.

The book reading session taught me that knowledge is often found in books and through learning. This session made me enjoy learning and encouraged me to do my best. I will always remember it as a good learning journey.
Anahita Pathak, 5B

Today’s session at Good School was truly inspiring. The workshop was amazing and helped me understand the importance of positive thinking and effective communication. I felt motivated to stay confident and try my best in everything I do.

The book reading session was wonderful too. It reminded me that knowledge is everywhere and reading can open up new ideas and perspectives. Overall, the session was full of learning, fun, and inspiration. It made me reflect on my own habits and how I can improve both in studies and in life.

Ishika Singh, 9A

In today’s Good School sssion, conducted by Jugjiv Sir, I learned how to pronounce words and sentences correctly. I also learned where to pause at full stops and commas and how to use punctuation marks properly while speaking and reading. The class helped me improve my speaking skills and understand the importance of correct pronunciation. My experience in today’s class was wonderful, and I learned many new and useful things.
Riddhi Gupta, 5B

The session was inspiring and full of learning.

The YES workshop helped me understand the importance of communication and positive thinking.

The book reading session taught me that knowledge is often found in books and through learning.

Overall, it was an amazing session that encouraged me to learn and read books.
Arohi Jaiswal, 5B

Finding Voice Through Stories: Deen Shah’s First Steps with My Good School

I applied for the Good School Alliance Internship because my school shared meeting links for the reading sessions that were held on Sundays, and I joined a few of them. I really enjoyed these sessions as they were calm and interactive, and they gave everyone a chance to read and share their thoughts openly. Being part of such discussions helped me feel more confident and interested in reading. A friend also encouraged me to apply for the internship, which motivated me to take this opportunity.

My aim is to develop a better reading habit and improve my communication skills. I also want to learn how these reading sessions are planned and conducted. Through this internship, I hope to actively participate in the sessions, share my reflections, and encourage other students from my school to join and benefit from them.

Thank you. 

Sunday School Reflection

The reading sessions were really interesting and fun for me as a student. The session on The Inner Life of Animals made me realise that animals have feelings and emotions too, which taught me to be more caring and kind towards them. The session on The Whistling Schoolboy and Other Stories was enjoyable and easy to understand, and I could relate to the simple situations and innocent thoughts in the stories. These sessions not only improved my listening skills and imagination but also made me think more deeply about life and the world around me. I really enjoyed these sessions and feel grateful to the Good School Alliance for organising such exciting and meaningful reading experiences.

Deen Shah Najam Sunbeam Ballia

The Importance of Communication Skills - Lotus Petal Foundation

Communication skills are an essential part of a student's growth and future success. To help students understand their importance and inspire them to develop strong communication skills, the school organised an interactive and enriching session led by Mr Kartik Bajoria. 

The session helped students realise that strong communication skills can transform the way they connect with people, solve problems, and achieve their goals. It was an inspiring and motivating experience for everyone, leaving students more aware and confident about improving their communication.

My Good School Reflections by students at the Lotus Petal Foundation.

Insights from the Lotus Petal Reading Circle

My Good School

Students from Lotus Petals Foundation shared their thoughts after Sunday School at My Good School. They enjoyed discovering new words, understanding stories better, and feeling inspired by the engaging read-alouds. The session allowed them to think, imagine, and connect with characters deeply. Reading together boosted their confidence, improved their fluency, and made them enjoy stories as a community.

Reflections of Growth from the Retreat and Sunday School Session- Sunbeam Hostel Lahartara

 

Reflection Sunbeam Lahartara

Sunbeam Hostel lahartara

Students of Sunbeam Lahartara shared that the retreat and Sunday School session offered them a meaningful space to slow down, connect, and learn with intention. Through guided reflections, interactive discussions, and values-based activities, they discovered the power of listening deeply—to themselves, to their peers, and to the lessons within each story.

They expressed that the retreat helped them build clarity, confidence, and a sense of inner calm. The Sunday School session strengthened their understanding of compassion, gratitude, and mindful action. Many felt inspired by the stories shared, noticing how simple narratives can open doors to self-awareness and better decision-making.

Collectively, the students highlighted that the experience taught them to think with openness, speak with kindness, and act with purpose—learnings they hope to carry into their classrooms, homes, and daily lives.

Sunbeam Hostel Lahartara

Sunday Reflections of Young Readers - Lotus Petal Foundation

 

Reflection_Lotus Petals Foundation

The Sunday reading session filled the students with joy, curiosity, and a sense of discovery. As they listened to stories come alive, they felt the excitement of new words, new ideas, and new worlds opening before them. Many shared how reading aloud helped them speak with confidence, imagine more deeply, and understand emotions better. The session reminded them that every story brings its own surprise — a moment of learning, a spark of inspiration, and the happiness of reading together as a community.

Lotus Petal Foundation

My Good School Reading Session 9th November 2025 - Sunbeam School Balia

My reflection on today's Good School session:

Today's reading session was exciting and enjoyable. I learned new words and improved my reading and speaking skills. The first session was with Mr Jugjiv Sir, who read "The Door-To-Door Bookstore." His reading voice was lively and inspiring.

The second session was with Manisha Khanna Ma'am, who read "The Whistling Schoolboy Aur Anya Kahaniyan." Her stories were emotional and full of moral lessons about kindness and the realities of life. I also enjoyed listening to my classmates and learning from their reading styles.

Thank you...
Anahita Pathak
Class 5th B

Today's session was one of the most interesting and inspiring sessions I've had. My reflection was about two interesting books that we read.

In the first class, we had "Jugjiv Sir." We continued to read the story "The Door-To-Door Bookstore." This story illustrates how books can bring people together. I learned about new words and how to pronounce them.

The second session was with "Manisha Ma'am."

She read the story "The Whistling Schoolboy Aur Anya Kahaniyan." The story was fascinating and full of morals and values. I learned many new words and values in both sessions.
I realised the importance of reading in both sessions.

Thank you!!
Janhvi 5th-C

My Reflection on Today's Good School Session...

Today's reading session was exciting and enjoyable. I learned new words and improved my reading and speaking skills. The story we read provided a valuable moral lesson and made me think deeply. Reading aloud helped me build confidence in front of others. I also enjoyed listening to my classmates and learning from their reading styles. The teacher explained everything clearly. Overall, the session was fun and educational.

Thank you...
Aadhya
Class 5th B

Reflection – Sunday Session (9th November 2025) - From Sunbeam School Ballia Today's Sunday session was a truly enriching and joyful experience. We began with "The Door-to-Door Bookstore" read by Jugjiv Sir, followed by "Dekho, Sriman Oliver Aaye Hain" read by Manisha Ma'am. Both readings were engaging and full of meaning. Listening to them helped me connect deeply with the stories and appreciate the beauty of language and imagination. I enjoyed learning new words and exploring fresh ideas through these readings. It felt wonderful to spend my time productively while developing my love for books. I'm thankful to the whole team of my Good School Alliance for organising such inspiring sessions that make learning enjoyable and help me grow as a reader and thinker. 

Akanksha Rai 
Class 9th 

Inspiring Minds Through Reading and Expression - Sunbeam School Ballia

Today, in the Good School Alliance session, I attended a very interesting and meaningful class conducted by Jugjiv Sir. In the class, Sir read a wonderful story and asked about our experience and thoughts on today's class. Another important thing we learned was the correct use of punctuation marks and how to spell words and sentences correctly. He also explained about public speaking and speaking with confidence. Overall, the class was very educational and enjoyable. I learned many new things about speaking, reading, and writing. I feel that these lessons will help me become a better communicator and a more confident speaker in the future.

Riddhi Gupta

My Reflection on Today's Session

Today's session was inspiring and enjoyable. It helped me to understand the importance of regular reading and how it improves our creativity and thinking. I liked how the speaker encouraged us to explore new books and share our ideas with others. It was a really meaningful session for me.

Aadhya Gupta, Class 5B

In today's Good School Session, firstly, Jugjiv Sir read an amazing story. We learned how to pronounce some difficult words. He also explained about public speaking and speaking with confidence. Overall, this session was really awesome and helpful for speaking, reading, and writing.

Arohi Jaiswal, Class 5B

Reflection on Today's Session 

In today's session, we had a very great personality, Mr Jugjiv Sir. He read a story, “The Door-to-Door Bookstore.” Sir also explained the story and asked us questions. Sir taught us the meaning of hard words, and I was focusing on each word. Really, Sir explained the story very nicely. After Jugjiv Sir's class, we automatically moved to Brinda Ma’am’s class. She read the story “The Inner Life of Animals” and also explained the meanings of difficult words and how to pronounce them. At the end, I would like to say that the session was really informative.

Thank you.

Janhvi Singh, Class 5C

Today's Morning Session

Today's morning session started with Jugjiv Sir. He read a story called “The Door-to-Door Bookstore.” It was such an amazing story, and he also told us some interesting and knowledgeable new things. This session was really awesome. 

In the second session, we had a great personality, Ms Brinda Ghosh Ma’am, with us. She also read a story named “The Inner Life of Animals,” in which she read the chapter “Hello Sandman.” It was an amazing story. Then she also told us new things that we did not even know.

This session was also really nice. Both sessions were really wonderful. 

Talat Bano, Class 5C

My Reflection on Today's Session

In today's session, we had a very great personality, Mr Jugjiv Sir.

He read a story, “The Door-to-Door Bookstore.” Sir also explained the story and asked us questions. Sir taught us the meaning of hard words, and I was focusing on each word. Really, Sir explained the story very nicely. After Jugjiv Sir's class, we automatically moved to Brinda Ma’am’s class. She read the story “The Inner Life of Animals” and also explained the meanings of difficult words and how to pronounce them. At the end, I would like to say that the session was really informative.

Thank you.

Janhvi Singh, Class 5C

Reflection Speech

Today's session was truly inspiring and enjoyable, leaving a lasting impact on my perspective. I'd like to express my gratitude to Jugjiv Sir for his engaging presentation.

The story he shared was captivating, and the way he articulated difficult words helped me improve my pronunciation. The session on public speaking and confidence was particularly insightful, emphasising the importance of effective communication.

What resonated with me most was the encouragement to explore new books and share ideas with others. This session was a valuable reminder of the power of reading in enhancing our creativity, thinking, and communication skills.

Overall, it was an enriching experience that I thoroughly enjoyed. I'm grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow, and I look forward to applying these valuable lessons in my daily life.

Iqra Meraj, Class IX-F

A Day of Literary and Intellectual Growth

I wanted to express my sincere appreciation for today's profoundly educational and enjoyable Good School Alliance session. The seamless combination of literary exposure and practical communication advice made this a truly memorable day of learning.

The first segment, led by Jugjiv Sir, was characterised by warmth and clarity. The reading of “The Door-to-Door Bookstore” beautifully highlighted themes of community, friendship, and the personal connections we form with literature. Sir’s subsequent lesson on correct punctuation and clear articulation was incredibly useful, as it directly addressed crucial elements of effective writing and speaking. His emphasis on developing public speaking confidence gave me actionable steps toward becoming a better orator.

The second session, featuring the insightful Ms Brinda Ghosh, shifted our focus to the natural world. Her reading from the chapter “Hello Sandman” in “The Inner Life of Animals” was fascinating. It opened my eyes to the depth of emotional and intellectual life in animals, introducing new concepts that sparked my curiosity and desire to learn more about environmental studies and biology.

Both presenters delivered their content with infectious enthusiasm. I left the session feeling motivated to not only read more widely but also to practice the communication techniques I acquired. These lessons are highly valuable and will undoubtedly contribute to my growth both academically and personally.

Ashish Verma, Class 12 PCB

Fun, Learning, and Growing with My Good School

Reflections 19th Oct.docx by Manisha Khanna

The Lotus Petal Foundation is delighted to share reflections on the insightful session conducted by Mr Kartik Bajoria on Communication Skills this past Sunday.

The session was an engaging and enriching experience for our students and team members alike. Mr Bajoria’s dynamic approach and practical examples helped participants understand the essence of effective communication — not just as a tool for expression, but as a bridge for connection and confidence.

Through interactive discussions, relatable anecdotes, and hands-on exercises, participants explored how tone, body language, and clarity play vital roles in everyday interactions. The session encouraged everyone to reflect on their own communication styles and discover ways to express themselves with greater authenticity and impact.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mr Bajoria for his time, expertise, and passion in empowering young minds. The learnings from this session will surely inspire our students to communicate with purpose, empathy, and self-assurance.

Inspiration and Joy: Sunbeam Lahartara

My Good School.pptx by Manisha Khanna

Students of Sunbeam School enthusiastically share their views about Sunday School, expressing their love and enjoyment of it. For them, Sunday School is not just a place of learning but also a source of joy, values, and inspiration. They eagerly look forward to it every week, as it helps them grow in knowledge, confidence, and character, while creating beautiful memories with their friends and teachers

Sunday Sessions that Inspire Reading and Thinking - Sunbeam School, Ballia

True growth begins when we take charge of our actions, work on bettering ourselves, and inspire others through what we do. By being responsible, open to improvement, and setting a positive example, we create a ripple of change that reaches far beyond us. The best part of today’s session was the focus on quality time rather than quantity. During the session, 

I shared this thought: "If you want to buy jeans without looking at the price, you must study without looking at the time." 

Astha Mishra

Jai Hind, dear readers,

I am Aayush Kumar Singh from Class 10 A, and this is my reflection on today’s session.

Study like you’re shopping for a luxury item—focus on the quality, not the cost. The best results don’t come from watching the clock, but from immersing yourself completely in the work.

Another way to put it: Dedicate yourself to learning with the same unwavering focus you’d have when purchasing something without looking at the price tag. True wealth isn’t measured in hours spent, but in the depth of knowledge gained.

Or simply: When you’re truly invested in your goals, you stop counting the hours you put in. Success isn’t about the quantity of time you spend, but the quality of the effort you make.

Thank you, and Jai Hind.

Aayush Kumar Singh

I am Saksham Gupta of Class 6E, and I am going to tell you about the session named "My Good School." It takes place every Sunday to help us improve our reading skills. This platform not only strengthens our reading but also sharpens our thinking power.

About the Story

Today, the story was "Weathering the Storm" by our mentor, Ms. Brinda Ghosh. She is an amazing teacher, and I really enjoyed the way she told the story.

I would also recommend that other readers join these classes every Sunday. They will definitely help improve your reading.

Saksham Gupta

Growing with Confidence: Understanding Puberty at Lotus Petals Foundation

 

Puberty.pdf by Manisha Khanna

Students from the Lotus Petals Foundation recently came together to share their thoughts and understanding about puberty, a vital stage of growing up. Through open discussions and interactive sessions, they expressed how their bodies and emotions are changing, and how gaining knowledge about these changes helps them feel more confident and prepared. They talked about physical developments like height, voice changes, and menstruation, as well as emotional shifts such as mood swings and growing independence. The students emphasized the importance of hygiene, healthy habits, and respectful communication during this phase. Their reflections showed a strong sense of curiosity, maturity, and the positive impact of a supportive learning environment.

Beyond Marks: Raising World Ready Children - Sunbeam School, Lahartara

 

Confident Kids, Strong Futures - MY GOOD SCHOOL .pptx by students of Sunbeam School, Lahartara and posted on their behalf by Manisha Khanna, our GSA Principal.

In today's fast-paced and competitive world, every parent must ask themselves an important question: Are we only preparing our children for exams, or are we also preparing them for life? Good marks may open doors, but confidence, emotional strength, decision-making skills, effective communication, and strong moral values help children thrive. These qualities empower them to handle challenges, build meaningful relationships, and navigate the complexities of adulthood independently. A balanced upbringing means teaching children not just how to study, but also how to live with purpose, empathy, and resilience. Let's move beyond textbooks and help our children become well-rounded individuals ready to face the world with strength and wisdom.

Puberty and Perspective: Learning, Questioning, and Growing with Confidence - Nikunj Gupta

Today's session really helped me make sense of the changes I’m going through—both in my body and emotions—as I experience puberty. I learned that it’s all a normal part of growing up, mostly driven by hormones like testosterone and estrogen.

I also found it fascinating how our culture can shape the way we respond to things, even something as simple as food. One part that stood out to me was the example about deworming horses—it showed how the same word can mean completely different things depending on the context.

Overall, I feel more comfortable now discussing these topics and know it’s okay to ask questions or seek help when I need it.

Nikunj Gupta

Class VII

Sunbeam Suncity School

Embracing Change: Understanding Puberty with Confidence and Respect - Astha Mishra

The session on puberty was very informative and eye-opening. It helped me understand the changes that happen in our body and mind as we grow from children into teenagers. It also taught me the importance of involving an adult whenever we make any important decision.

Overall, the session helped me feel more confident and less awkward about this stage of life. It also taught me to be respectful and understanding toward others who are also going through these changes. I now see puberty not as something to be scared or ashamed of, but as a natural and important step in becoming a responsible and mature individual.

~Astha Mishra

Class IX

Sunbeam School, Ballia

Beyond Ordinary: The Century School’s Chronicle of Inner Light

Each person is born with special qualities that make them different from others. The foremost step to discovering one’s uniqueness is self-awareness. One has to observe what they enjoy doing the most—whether it’s a talent, a skill, or a hobby. Feedback also plays a crucial role in discovering one’s uniqueness.

Sometimes, this journey becomes difficult due to fear, lack of awareness, or parental pressure. It may be the fear of judgment or the feeling of not being “good enough.”

In the journey of discovering your uniqueness, don’t forget—never compare yourself with anyone. Be honest, curious, and confident. The real talent lies within, and the key to unlocking it is to believe in yourself and move forward with courage.

Anshika Sharma

The Century School, Karnal

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Kartik Bajoria shared how everyone possesses something unique and explained how he discovered his own. He is right in saying that instead of trying to fit in, one must embrace their differences.

His message is a powerful life lesson—that one’s uniqueness is not a flaw but a strength that leads to the true path of life.

Pranit Batra

The Century School, Karnal

Looking Back: Reflecting on the Journey - Sunbeam School Lahartara

At  Sunbeam School, Lahartara, we believe that  true learning begins when students pause to reflect. Reflection transforms experiences into insight, moments into meaning, and interactions into personal growth. Our recent  Meet and Greet session with Mr. Kartik Bajoria—a celebrated  coach and mentor—was not just an event; it was a mirror held up to every student’s thoughts, expressions, and aspirations. His words didn’t merely inform—they inspired, provoked questions, and awakened self-awareness. After the session, students took time to write, discuss, and share their reflections. This deliberate act of looking inward helped them:  Recognise how communication shapes confidence.  Acknowledge their own strengths and fears.  Connect what they heard to who they are becoming. Each reflection was a beam of light—unique, honest, and glowing with possibility. At Sunbeam, we don’t just teach students what to think; we nurture how they think. And through reflection, they grow not just smarter—but wiser, kinder, and more self-aware. 

The Secret Behind Her Productivity - Shambhavi Nautiyal

Surabhi was a 14-year-old straight-A student who always tried to make the most out of her time. She didn’t make friends, or maybe it’s just that her friends didn’t stick with her. She had been moving through her day, keeping much to herself and studying as much as possible. Then, a new transfer student ‘Kavita’ entered her life.

She was smart, confident, uninhibited and open about her feelings. She always looked so happy and ‘perfect’ in Surabhi’s eyes. It made her wish that she could be like her. Then, one day, Kavita came up to her and said “Hi!” She complimented Surabhi’s hair and how pretty she looked, which made her drop a tear or two.

Kavita kept probing her until Surabhi confessed how her mother never let her sleep, how she could not study ‘enough’ and just couldn’t make time, and then Kavita told her how the same things happened to her, and so she tried a new timetable which helped her.

Kavita asked Surabhi how she felt then, but she said "Nothing can ever help me". Then Kavita suddenly got all serious and said “If you don’t let yourself be helped, you won’t be helped”. Surabhi ran to the girl’s restroom, looked in the mirror, and realised that she had been betraying herself by telling herself that she could never succeed and everyone else was ahead of her not making any mistakes.

She told this to Kavita, when she confirmed to her that everyone including herself always went through times when they simply couldn’t achieve their goals overnight and had to do the job bit by bit. Surabhi was hit by a wave of discernment, how she had been gatekeeping a lot from her friends without actually knowing. When she was with them not much came out of her mouth and she just tried pushing her fears and problems under the rug because why would she trouble them with her problems, wouldn’t that just make her ‘uninteresting’, ‘cry-baby’ or ‘too sensitive and uncool’.

Kavita told her that it’s always okay to feel your feelings and first sort her things out before approaching a friend. Surabhi felt renewed and comforted for the first time in weeks and just decided to be grateful.

------------------------------------------- The End ---------------------------------------------------------------------

Shambhavi Nautiyal 

Class- 10

Ahlcon Public School