Reading Beyond Words - Rekha Sharma

- Rekha Sharma is a PRT at Sunbeam School, Mau, and regularly attends the Sunday My Good School. She brings back the teaching and learning to her class at school.

We read together every Sunday at My Good School

Happy Teachers at My Good School

Manisha and Brinda led a student reading session that opened with the Good School anthem. Students, including Maira, Ankit, and Arfa, read and discussed three books: “My Family and Other Animals” by Gerald Durrell, “Highway to Swades” by Bhairvi Jalani, and “Tata Stories.” Brinda read about a character’s return to England from Durrell’s book, and students shared reflections. Discussing “Highway to Swades,” the group explored enterprise, innovation, and how India’s entrepreneurial spirit can drive social development. Manisha led a reading and comprehension quiz. Neenu then shared “Tata Stories” excerpts on Jamsetji Tata’s vision and contributions, including Tata Steel, cancer hospitals, and social initiatives.

Exploring India and Environmental Responsibility - Shreya Tiwari

 Learning About India and Our Environment

Today’s reading session with Jugjiv Sir was an interesting learning experience. While reading Highway to Swades by Bhairavi Jani, I learned about India, its strengths, and its potential for growth.

We also explored the topic of climate change and its impact on our environment. This made me realise how important it is to protect nature and use our resources wisely.

I believe that small actions, such as planting trees, saving water, and reducing plastic use, can bring about positive changes. Everyone can contribute to creating a healthier environment.

Overall, this session broadened my perspective and helped me understand the importance of caring for our country and our planet. I look forward to learning more as we continue reading the book.

Shreya Tiwari

Class VIII-E

Sunbeam School, Ballia

My Family and Other Animals - Raunak Gupta

Today's reading session was truly enjoyable and gave me a fresh perspective. While exploring My Family and Other Animals by Gerald Durrell, I reflected on how even the smallest incidents can become interesting when we pay attention to detail.

I realised that I sometimes overlook the ordinary things around me, but this session encouraged me to be more observant and patient, especially when situations do not go as expected. I also enjoyed discovering how the author's way of describing everyday experiences makes them come alive and seem meaningful.

Overall, this session made me realise that reading is not just about understanding a story but also about learning to look at the world differently. It inspired me to be more curious, notice the little things, and find meaning in my everyday experiences.

Raunak Gupta

Class VIII-E, Sunbeam School Ballia

My Good School: Learning Beyond Textbooks - Shaswat Ojha

Attending My Good School has been a unique and enriching learning experience for me. Jugjiv Singh Sir read the story Highway to Swades, and I thoroughly enjoyed listening to it. These sessions encourage me to think beyond textbooks, express my opinions, and improve my vocabulary. The story also inspired me to reflect on India's future and understand different perspectives. 

Overall, My Good School provides a wonderful opportunity to explore new ideas, broaden my horizons, and learn new things.

Shaswat Ojha

Class VIII-E, Sunbeam School Ballia

Learning from Nature and India’s History: A Reflection on Today’s Session - Talat Bano

In today’s session, we began with the Good School Alliance anthem, followed by the first session conducted by Siya Khanna Ma’am, who introduced us to the book My Family and Other Animals by Gerald Durrell. She explained the chapter beautifully and engagingly.  Ma’am also shared her love for reading and told us that she started reading at the age of one!

In the chapter, Dodo chose nature over the party. This choice helped me understand that our love for nature is so deep that it cannot always be expressed in words. 

The Second Session was conducted by Jugjiv Singh Sir, who introduced us to Highway to Swades, written by Bhairavi Jani, an author who loves exploring India’s history. During the session, Sir told us about India’s first power.

This session taught me that learning is not just about reading books; it is also about understanding our past and learning from it. 

Thank you!

Talat Bano
Sunbeam School, Ballia

Go Green for a Better Tomorrow: Small Steps, Big Changes - Ananya Singh

The session began with a reading from Highway to Swades by Ms Bhairavi Jani. Jugjiv Singh Sir helped me see India from a new perspective and appreciate our country’s potential and opportunities.

We discussed global warming and climate change and learned how rising temperatures and irregular weather patterns affect our daily lives. We also reflected on how the excessive use of plastic contributes to environmental pollution.

Key Learnings:

• Small changes in our everyday lives can make a big difference.

• Reducing plastic use, planting trees, and adopting eco-friendly habits can help protect our planet.

As a student, I feel responsible for spreading environmental awareness among the people around me and contributing to a greener and healthier future.

Go Green for a Better Tomorrow!

Ananya Singh
Class VI-D, Sunbeam School, Ballia

From Awareness to Action: Our Journey Towards a Greener India - Pooja Pandey

 

Pooja Pandey
Sunbeam School Ballia

Reading: A Pathway to Rejuvenation and Enhanced Observation - PYDS Learning academy

Reading: A Pathway to Rejuvenation and Enhanced Observation

Reading is not merely an activity to gain knowledge; it is also a wonderful way to rejuvenate our minds, refresh our thoughts, and reconnect with ourselves. It provides us with an opportunity to pause from our daily routines, explore new ideas, and develop a deeper understanding of the world around us. For teachers, reading can be a meaningful practice that promotes continuous learning, creativity, and professional growth.

To make reading sessions more effective, teachers need to be organised, focused, and mindful of their approach. A well-planned reading session encourages active participation, improves comprehension, and creates a positive learning environment. Teachers should also develop their observation skills by paying attention to details, identifying key ideas, interpreting information, and reflecting on the author's message.

Observation is an essential skill for educators, as it enables them to understand students' needs, recognise learning patterns, and respond effectively to different classroom situations. Reading thoughtfully helps teachers sharpen these skills and become more attentive and reflective in their professional practice.

Ultimately, reading and observation go hand in hand. When teachers cultivate the habit of reading regularly and approach it with curiosity and discipline, they not only enrich their own knowledge but also become better equipped to inspire, guide, and nurture their students. Reading, therefore, becomes a powerful tool for personal rejuvenation and professional excellence.

My Good School Reflections

Jugaad in Education - Rekha Sharma

After reading these pages from Highway to Swades, I realised that being a teacher is not just about delivering textbook lessons; it is about understanding students’ real-life problems and finding meaningful ways to help them learn. 

The concept of Jugaad, finding simple, flexible, and practical solutions using available resources, made me reflect on the realities of classroom teaching. In a real classroom, every student is different. Some students understand concepts quickly, while others struggle because of language barriers, low confidence, limited support at home, or a lack of learning materials. As a teacher, I cannot expect every child to learn in the same way. Instead, I need to adapt my teaching according to their needs. For example, if students find mathematics difficult, I can use stones, seeds, bottle caps, or everyday objects to explain basic concepts instead of relying only on the textbook. If students can’t understand a science concept through explanation alone, I can connect it to things they observe in their surroundings. This reading reminded me that effective teaching doesn’t always require expensive resources; sometimes, a simple idea, a little patience, and an understanding of children can make a real difference. However, I also believe that jugaad should not become an excuse for accepting poor educational facilities. As a teacher, I must use my creativity to solve immediate problems while also recognising when students need better resources and institutional support. 

The most important lesson I take from this reading is that when students fail to understand something, I should not immediately assume they are weak; I should first reflect on whether my teaching method meets their needs. I want to become a teacher who does not give up when a method fails, but instead tries a different approach until students have a fair chance to understand. 

For me, Jugaad in education is not simply managing with fewer resources; it is using creativity, empathy, and practical thinking to turn classroom challenges into learning opportunities. A good teacher is not one who never faces difficulties, but one who responds thoughtfully, without compromising any child’s dignity, learning, or future.

Ms Rekha Sharma, teacher at Sunbeam School Mau

Learning to Dream Big and Start Small – Reflection on Highway to Swades - Shreya Tiwari

Reflections on Highway to Swades

Today’s reading session with Jugjiv Sir was really insightful. While reading Highway to Swades by Bhairavi Jani, I learned about Rewaz Chhetri and how he started Northeast Taxis despite the limited business opportunities in his area.

This session made me realise we shouldn’t wait for perfect opportunities to do something meaningful. We can start small, work hard, and gradually achieve our goals. It also taught me to believe in my ideas and never give up easily.

Shreya Tiwari
Class 8E
Sunbeam School, Ballia

Finding Joy and Learning from Everyday Experiences – My Family and Other Animals - Gaurav Singh

Reading Reflection – My Family and Other Animals

Today’s reading session with Brinda Ghosh Ma’am was really interesting. While reading My Family and Other Animals by Gerald Durrell, I learned about the preparations for a family party and some unexpected incidents that occurred during the day.

This reading made me realise that even ordinary daily experiences can become interesting when we observe them carefully. I also learned to stay patient when unexpected situations arise and handle them with a positive attitude. The author’s humorous way of describing small incidents made the reading enjoyable and helped me understand the importance of observation and creativity.

Overall, it was an enriching reading experience that encouraged me to observe the world around me and learn from everyday life.

Gaurav Singh

Class IXA

Sunbeam School, Ballia

The Power of Entrepreneurship – Ishika Singh

Today’s reading session with Jugjiv Sir was truly engaging and inspiring. While reading Highway to Swades by Bhairavi Jani, we learned about Indians' superpowers, one of which is entrepreneurship. The author shared the inspiring example of Rewaz Chhetri, who started Northeast Taxis in a region with limited entrepreneurial opportunities, where most people aspired to secure government jobs.

The session taught me that every successful enterprise begins with a small step. With hard work, determination, and consistency, even a small initiative can grow into a successful business. It was a truly inspiring session that encouraged me to think beyond limitations and recognise the power of entrepreneurship in creating opportunities and bringing positive change.

Ishika Singh, Class 10 B
Sunbeam School, Ballia

Learning Through Stories –Akshat Kr. Dubey

Attending today’s My Good School session was truly enjoyable and eye-opening. Listening to Gerald Durrell’s humorous childhood stories from My Family and Other Animals made everyone smile. At the same time, the discussions on Highway to Swades and Tata Stories offered deeper insights into entrepreneurship, leadership, and sacrifice.

Jugjiv Sir’s explanation of Northeast Taxis helped me understand how a business can create opportunities and make a positive difference in people’s lives. Neenu Ma’am’s story about Meherbai Tata, who sacrificed her personal jewels to help save the company in 1924, was deeply moving and taught me the importance of courage and sacrifice.

Sandeep Sir’s simple yet powerful reminder that happy teachers make happy students also left a lasting impression on me. Overall, the session was a wonderful learning experience that inspired me to appreciate the power of stories, values, and positive thinking.

Akshat Kr. Dubey, Class 9 F
Sunbeam School, Ballia

Happy Teachers, Make Happy Students - Ananya Singh

Jai Hind, All!

Among the session’s inspiring insights, Sandeep Sir’s remark, “Happy teachers, make happy students,” resonated deeply with me. It’s a powerful reminder that education isn’t just about the curriculum and grades; it is also about nurturing students’ hearts and minds. When teachers teach with happiness and enthusiasm, they create a safe, positive, and vibrant learning environment where students feel encouraged, confident, and motivated to thrive.

Ananya Singh, Class 6D
Sunbeam School, Ballia

Believe in Yourself – The Power of Entrepreneurship - Pratigya Pathak

Today’s session with Jugjiv Sir was truly interesting and inspiring. While reading Highway to Swades, I learned about Rewaz Chhetri, who started Northeast Taxis despite the limited entrepreneurial opportunities in his region. His story taught me not to wait for the perfect time or opportunity. If we have an idea, we should believe in it, start small, and work hard to turn it into reality.

This session made me realise the importance of believing in ourselves and working consistently towards our goals. It inspired me to overcome challenges, take initiative, and pursue my dreams with determination and confidence.

Pratigya Pathak, Class IX B
Sunbeam School, Ballia

Small Steps, Big Dreams – A Reflection on Entrepreneurship - Disha Singh

The reading session with Jugjiv Sir was truly interesting and inspiring. While reading Highway to Swades by Bhairavi Jani, I learned about Rewaz Chhetri and how he started Northeast Taxis despite the limited business opportunities in his region.

This session made me realise we shouldn’t wait for the perfect opportunity to do something meaningful. We can start with something small, work hard, and gradually achieve our goals. It also taught me to believe in my ideas, stay determined, and never give up easily.

Disha Singh, Class 6D
Sunbeam School, Ballia

The Power of Self-Belief and Entrepreneurship - Aashiya Akhtar

Today’s reading session with Jugjiv Sir was truly interesting and inspiring. While reading Highway to Swades by Bhairavi Jani, I learned about Rewaz Chhetri, who started Northeast Taxis despite the limited business opportunities in his region.

This session taught me that every great achievement begins with a small step. We should believe in our ideas, work hard with determination, and never give up when we face challenges. I also realised that success is not just about having opportunities but also about having the courage to create them.

Overall, it was a wonderful learning experience that inspired me to think creatively, stay positive, and look beyond my limitations.

Aashiya Akhtar, Class 6D
Sunbeam School, Ballia

Learning, Inspiration, and Valuable Life Lessons - Talat Bano

Reflection on Today’s Session

Today’s Sunday session of the Good School Alliance began with the GSA Anthem, followed by Brinda Ma’am’s session, where she read a story from Gerald Durrell’s My Family and Other Animals. I really enjoyed the session; Ma’am explained the chapter beautifully and cleared our doubts.

The second session, conducted by Jugjiv Singh Sir, was truly inspiring. While reading Highway to Swades by Bhairavi Jani, we learned about Indians’ strengths and potential.

This session wasn’t just about reading; it also taught me the importance of honesty, consistency, and determination. It inspired me to learn new things and apply these values in my daily life.

Both sessions were wonderful learning experiences and taught me many valuable lessons.

Thank you!

Talat Bano

Class VI A

Sunbeam School, Ballia

Learning Life Lessons Through Stories – Deenshah Najam

Today’s My Good School session was truly engaging and inspiring. Brinda Ma’am read My Family and Other Animals by Gerald Durrell and taught us the importance of observation, creativity, and handling unexpected situations positively.

In the second session, Jugjiv Sir read Highway to Swades by Bhairavi Jani. Through the story of Rewaz Chhetri and Northeast Taxis, I learned about entrepreneurship, hard work, honesty, and consistency. I also learned about Meherbai Tata’s sacrifice to help save her husband’s company, which taught me the importance of courage and selflessness.

Overall, these sessions taught me valuable lessons about learning from everyday experiences, believing in our ideas, and overcoming challenges with determination. It was a wonderful and enriching learning experience for me.

Deenshah Najam

Class X

Sunbeam School, Ballia