The Doon School Old Boys' Society is a member of the Good Schools Alliance.
Photo courtesy: Instagram handle @thedsobs
5 March 2025 The DSOBS delegation visited Arthur Foot Academy (AFA) to understand its educational endeavors and extend a hand to support the Good School Alliance (GSA) work as part of the Dosco Impact initiative.
An Aristocracy Of Service
The motto of the Doon School Old Boys' Society (DSOBS) is An Aristocracy of Service, borrowed from Arthur Foot's statement at the formal opening of the school on 27 October 1935: "Truly, we mean that the boys should leave the Doon School as members of an aristocracy, but it must be an aristocracy of service inspired by the ideals of unselfishness, not one of privilege, wealth or position.
In honour of Arthur Edward Foot's ideals, a dedicated Old Boys of The Doon School led by Asad Khan joined forces to create a lasting legacy for their first Headmaster, the Arthur Foot Academy. The academy is committed to providing a well-rounded education to the children of Bandarjhud, a small village near Dehradun.
As a member of the Good Schools Alliance, the academy is committed to nurturing each student's personal and social growth, focusing on service, skill, sport, and study. The school's mission is to prepare students to face the world confidently. #JoyOfLearning.
Culture of trust and learning
Exciting news! Learning Forward India Foundation has teamed up with the Arthur Foot Academy, backed by the incredible duo Asad Khan and Feroza Khan of the AFZAL KHAN FOUNDATION! Together, we are on a mission to equip the village's children to thrive in the world.
We are excited to announce our transformation of the Library into a vibrant Community Learning Centre equipped with WiFi and digital learning devices. This Centre is vital to the world. Each week, teachers, students, and local community members will gather for engaging Zoom sessions, discovering the joy of learning together.
We encourage you to join us in supporting the Arthur Foot Academy and helping create meaningful change. Your contribution goes beyond a donation; it is crucial in advancing our initiative. Together, we can positively impact the world. Your support is essential to our mission!
The session for the 'My Good School' program aims to enhance students' 6 C's through reading and reflection and emphasises the importance of student-centric learning and personal and social development. Discussions also revolved around traditional Indian practices, assertiveness, the practice of dowry, and the benefits of reading and learning from various books. The conversation ended with plans for upcoming presentations and the introduction of the My Good School program for teachers.
Next steps
• Sunbeam Lehartara students to prepare and present their YES Workshop presentations at the last Sunday session in January.
• Century School students must attend at least 3 months of My Good School sessions before preparing presentations.
• Manisha to share the Amazon link for "The Inner Life of Animals" book.
• Ila will encourage her students to read "The Inner Life of Animals" and "My Name is Cinnamon" books.
• Ila will consider bringing a group of teachers to Dehradun for a live session at the Joy of Learning studio.
• Students should explore the My Good School website and consider applying for internships after attending 5-6 weeks of sessions.
• Teachers interested in certification should submit 11 assignments in the year through the Teachers Academy program.
• Ila will send her students' poems and stories to be published in the Joy of Learning Diaries.
• Sunbeam schools will prepare YES Workshop presentations for the last Sunday session in January.
• As discussed in the chapter, all participants must reflect on the differences between urban and rural life and observe during monsoon season.
Summary
Introducing 'My Good School' Program
Sandeep welcomed Rajani Singh from Sunbeam Ballia. Manisha introduced the meeting's purpose: to discuss the 'My Good School' program, which aims to enhance the students' 6 Cs.
Pedagogy, Reflection, and School Alliance
In the meeting, Manisha and Sandeep discussed the importance of reading and reflection in their pedagogy, focusing on critical and creative thinking. They introduced two books, "In a Life of Animals" and "The Inner Life," for the community to read and reflect on. Sandeep also announced the addition of new schools to their Good School Alliance, emphasising the importance of student-centric learning and personal and social development. He encouraged the participants to volunteer in various programs, including professional learning programs and the Teachers Academy. The conversation ended with Sandeep and Manisha preparing to read from the books and the participants' reflections on the joy of learning for the year.
Cinnamon's Emotional Breakfast Encounter
In the meeting, Jugjiv discussed the book's previous chapter, focusing on the emotional moment when Cinnamon met his birth mother and stepfather. The group then discussed the events of the next chapter, where Cinnamon and his family had breakfast together. The breakfast consisted of spicy food, which Cinnamon struggled to eat, and the family's reactions to the food were discussed. The conversation ended with discussing the gifts Cinnamon and his family exchanged.
Exploring Indian Traditions and Cuisine
In this discussion, Jugjiv shares insights on the health benefits of traditional Indian practices like yoga poses, squatting toilets, and eating on the floor. He believes these practices promote better posture, flexibility, and digestion. The group discusses regional specialities like the Shaniwar Wada palace in Pune and textiles like Banarasi silk and Paithani sarees. They also discuss famous local food items such as malai, kachori, and tomato chaat. Jugjiv highlights the move away from nature and towards processed foods and medication in modern city life. The group exchanges views on ways to reduce spiciness in food, with milk and salt being recommended over water.
Assertiveness and Effective Communication
Jugjiv led a discussion on assertiveness, defining it as communicating directly, honestly, and respectfully while standing firm on one's point of view. He emphasised the importance of assertiveness in achieving goals, improving communication, and building relationships. He also highlighted the journey to becoming assertive, starting with self-reflection and setting boundaries. The group discussed various ways to become more assertive, including affirmations, clear communication, and confidence in one's knowledge and decisions. The discussion also touched on the role of self-reflection and clear thought in assertiveness.
Dowry's Origins and Reading Techniques
Jugjiv discusses the practice of dowry, which originated in Greece and the Roman Empire and spread to other parts of the world, including Latin America, due to European migration. He explains that dowry is present in Brazil and other Latin American countries because Portuguese colonisers brought the custom there. Jugjiv and Sandeep also discuss improving reading and pronunciation skills by following along with the text and Jugjiv's narration. Additionally, Jugjiv reads a passage about Cinnamon's observations of village life and his conversation with Aditi about his late father.
Explorers, Games, and Cultural Differences
Sandeep asks students to list five great explorers and the countries they came from as a reflection activity. Students mention Vasco da Gama from Portugal, Christopher Columbus, Ferdinand Magellan, and the Sikh guru Nanak Dev Ji. Jugjiv explains the meaning of the phrase "stark warning". They discuss traditional Indian games like marbles, hopscotch, and "ice and water". Jugjiv reads excerpts from a novel describing a boy named Cinnamon visiting his tribal relatives in a village, observing their way of life, food, and local fruits like mahua. The chapter highlights the cultural differences between urban and rural lives.
Reflecting on Books and Retreat Experiences
The students and teachers reflect on the benefits of reading and learning from various books. Sandeep emphasises the importance of reflection, sharing thoughts, and presenting learning. He outlines a structure for the monthly meetings, including student presentations on the last Sunday. The students present their experiences from a retreat program organised by the Good School Alliance, including activities like art competitions, team building, visiting schools, exploring farms, and interacting with local communities. They discuss the key themes and lessons from books like "The Inner Life of Animals," "My Name is Cinnamon," the Jataka Tales, and "The Hidden Life of Trees," highlighting the importance of empathy, different perspectives, and connections with nature.
Reflection and Learning Opportunities
Shaurya explains the benefits of reflection, such as promoting active learning and enhancing understanding. He thanks the organisers for the opportunities provided through the program. Shubhangi and Anmol also thank the organisers for facilitating learning and growth experiences. Sandeep encourages participation beyond the classroom, reading good books and practising the joy of giving. He invites schools to send students for an upcoming retreat. Deepa suggests having students read aloud during sessions for English practice. Sandeep explains the rationale for having professional readers instead but welcomes students to speak during the sessions. Ila shares her plan to motivate students to read books during the holidays, and Sandeep recommends specific book titles.
Sandeep's Office and My Good School
In the meeting, ILA and Sandeep discussed the location of Sandeep's office in Dehradun and his work at the Joy of Learning Studio above the iconic 101-year-old bookstore The English Book Depot. ILA expressed interest in visiting the studio and was invited to attend a live session on January 8th. Sandeep also introduced ILA to the My Good School program, which focuses on reading, reflection, and relationships and offers a certified program for teachers. ILA was encouraged to apply for the program and submit assignments for certification. The conversation ended with Manisha announcing the next month's presentations and the upcoming Yes program.
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29th December My Name Is Cinnamon - Jugjiv Singh The Inner Life Of Animals - Sandeep Dutt Reflections for 2024 - learning outcomes from the YES Workshops at Varanasi.
Good Schools India Journal
2nd December
Reading for a Living
Sandeep Dutt 15th December 2 Girls 1 Mic - Oshi and Simar 27th December Where Passion Meets Education
The Teacher's Academy
Masterclass every Saturday at 5:30 pm 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th December
Happy Birthday Good Schools Alliance. We pray for your happy and long life and a bright future. May you flourish everywhere on this beautiful planet EARTH.
- Suman Jakhar, Jhamku Devi Senior Secondary School
I wish you a very Happy Birthday. I hope you have an amazing year and the happiest of birthdays. The time spent with you is akin to discovering oneself and connecting it to one's potential. All it takes to make any of us smile is your presence. We appreciate you being here and motivating us.
On this special day, I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the participation of our beloved GSA member schools. School leaders, parents, and my dear students. Last but not least our beloved Sandeep sir, for his motivation and passion towards bringing all of us together and igniting the spark of light towards a common goal #Joy of Learning.
Your presence contributed immensely to our success story, and we truly appreciate your support. We truly appreciate your thoughts and recommendations as we think about and anticipate improving our upcoming experiences.
On behalf of GSA, I would like to thank each one of you, and invite you to the GSA retreat from 13th to 16thNovember. It's going to be a memorable experience for all of us. Our vision is to create #JoyofLearning focusing on reading, reflection, and building relationships.
Once again, a very Happy Birthday. Continue to rise and shine.
On behalf of the entire Sunbeam School and Hostel, Lahartara, we wish Good School Alliance a very Happy Birthday!
Thank you for making our Sundays both interesting and full of values, with a touch of fun. To be honest, we thoroughly enjoy our Sundays thanks to your efforts.
You have truly made a great impact on our lives, and we are grateful to have you.
Jugjiv Sir, Sandeep Sir and participants discussed the third anniversary of "My Good School" on October 1st, 2024, and the upcoming calendar. They welcomed Jhamku Devi Secondary School from Abohar, Punjab.
The calendar for October was shared an includes key dates like the GSI India journal publication and the "Two Girls, One Mic" episode.
They read from the book "My Name is Cinnamon," discussing themes of cheating and the importance of honesty.
They read from The Hidden Life Of Trees and explored the impact of weather on trees, including frost, lightning, and wind, emphasizing the importance of natural growth and community support for tree health. The session concluded with a reflection on the importance of honesty and the impact of natural disasters on trees.
Reflections for the week
-My Name Is Cinnamon-
1. What was your takeaway from the session today?
2. What was discussed in the chapter today?
3. What are boundaries? How can you maintain them?
4. Experiences while giving an exam
5. Would a help a person who is seeking the answer to a question?
6. What makes monsoon winds move?
7. How is the weather in Pune?
8. How is weather determined?
9. What is Ratnagari famous for?
10. A journey by train
11. Would you prefer travelling by train or by air?
12. On what percentage are India's train electrified?
- From The Hidden Life Of Trees –
1. What are clusters?
2. What is your takeaway from today’s session?
3. What happens when thicker coat is formed on leaves?
4. What role do trunks play?
5. How do trees survive?
6. How do trees change shape and direction and why?
7. What is "hoar frost"?
8. When do the trees look like they've been sprinkled with sugar?
9. What do the scars represent?
These are some suggestions you can choose from. Looking forward to seeing your wonderful and thoughtful reflections! You can email your reflections at - mk@learningforward.org.in
Rishona Chopra
School Captain
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Here are some strategies schools could use to encourage students to reflect more on their learning experiences after sessions:
1. Provide structured reflection templates or prompts: Give students a framework to guide their reflections, such as questions about key takeaways, challenges faced, or new perspectives gained.
2. Allocate dedicated reflection time: Set aside time after each session for students to individually or collectively reflect on their learning. This signals the importance of the reflection process.
3. Encourage peer-to-peer sharing: Allow students to share their reflections with classmates, either in small groups or as a whole class. This can spark deeper discussions and insights.
4. Incorporate reflection into assessments: Make reflective writing a part of the assessment process, such as including a reflection component in assignments or projects.
5. Recognize and celebrate reflective thinking: Acknowledge and appreciate students who demonstrate thoughtful reflection, either through verbal praise or by showcasing their reflections.
6. Model effective reflection: Teachers can demonstrate their own reflective practices, sharing how they learn and grow from their experiences.
7. Provide feedback on reflections: Offer constructive feedback on students' reflections, highlighting strengths and suggesting areas for improvement.
The key is to make reflection an integral and valued part of the learning process, rather than an afterthought. By fostering a culture of reflective thinking, schools can help students develop essential skills for lifelong learning and personal growth.
