Thank you note from Sunbeam School Ballia

Thank you, Sunbeam School Ballia, for your love and kindness. On behalf of the Host Committee and all of us at the Good Schools Alliance, we express our deep gratitude to Dr Kunwar Arun Singh, the Principal, and the Staff at the school for their deep commitment to spreading the joy of learning.

The Power Of Reading

My Good School

To read and discuss two books, focusing on themes of nature, friendship, and history.

Key Takeaways

• “My Family and Other Animals” (Gerald Durrell): Gerald’s plan to get food from shepherd Yanni during siesta backfires. Yanni, a deep sleeper, only wakes after Roger the dog’s barking accidentally sends a cat fleeing up a grapevine, making the trellis shake.

• “The Whistling School Boy” (Ruskin Bond): The story details Bond’s friendship with Umar at Bishop Cotton School, formed over shared experiences and a secret, satirical manuscript. Their Bond is tested by the 1947 Partition, which forces Umar to leave for Pakistan.

• Reading as Reflection: The session opened with a discussion on reading’s power to cultivate patience and reflection, citing Manisha’s blog on libraries and Brinda’s reference to Barbara Kingsolver on how reading shapes temperament.

• Next Week’s Special Session: Kartik Bajoria will lead a session on writing effective book reviews to help students share their reading and encourage others to read.

Topics

The Power of Reading

• The session began with a reading of Manisha’s blog post, “Championing Readers,” which reflected on students talking in the library rather than reading.

• The post questioned if reading has become a “leisure activity” and argued it requires patience, attention, and imagination.

• Brinda connected this to Barbara Kingsolver’s view that reading changes temperament and is a source of hope for humanity.

• Jugjiv Singh added that reading cultivates self-reflection, citing the example of Eichmann’s unthinking obedience during the Holocaust.

“My Family and Other Animals” (Gerald Durrell)

• Context: Brinda introduced the book about naturalist Gerald Durrell’s childhood on Corfu Island, Greece, providing background on his family and passion for animals.

• Plot: Gerald and his dog, Roger, are hungry after a swim. Gerald avoids Leonora’s house to escape her daughter’s health updates and Taki the fisherman’s siesta.

• The Plan: Gerald decides to visit the shepherd Yanni, a light sleeper who rests under a grapevine trellis. He instructs Roger to bark loudly to wake Yanni.

• The Outcome: The barking fails to wake Yanni. However, it startles a cat, which flees up the trellis, causing it to shake violently and finally waking the shepherd.

• Hospitality & Lore: Yanni offers Gerald food and wine. He then shares a local remedy: a scorpion steeped in olive oil to cure stings, and a cautionary tale about a shepherd who died from a scorpion bite in his ear.

“The Whistling School Boy” (Ruskin Bond)

• Context: Manisha Khanna read the story in Hindi, noting that it is autobiographical and provides a historical lens on the 1947 Partition.

• Friendship & Shared Experiences: Bond, a quiet boy, befriends Umar, another quiet student. Their Bond strengthens as they play hockey together (Bond as goalkeeper, Umar as fullback) and share a secret manuscript.

• The Manuscript: Bond writes a satirical manuscript about school life and teachers, with Umar as his first reader. It includes a poem mocking Mr Oliver.

• Discovery & Discipline: Housemaster Mr Fischer finds the manuscript under Bond’s mattress. Bond receives six cane strokes but becomes a temporary “hero” among his peers.

• The Partition’s Impact: Lord Mountbatten’s visit to Bishop Cotton School, where Bond’s father was an alumnus, is followed by the devastating 1947 Partition.

• Separation: The school announces that Muslim students must vacate the hostel and be escorted to the new border. Bond and Umar meet one last time in a tunnel, discussing their uncertain future before Umar leaves for Pakistan.

Next Steps

• All Participants:

  • Submit reflections (write-ups, drawings, role-plays) on today’s stories for publication on the “Joy of Learning Diaries” website.

  • Prepare for next week’s session with Kartik Bajoria on writing book reviews.

• Students:

  • Keep notes on characters and vocabulary from “My Family and Other Animals” to aid recall.

AI-generated content, please read with due care. We are supported by FATHOM-AI.

My Good School Sunday the 8th of Feb 2026

Jai Hind

I am really grateful for the opportunity to attend this session. It was not just a learning session but an experience that made me think deeply. The story discussed during the session was beautifully explained, and every part of it was simply connected to real life. The way the story moved from nature to human emotions made it very interesting and meaningful for me.

One part that I especially liked was how the speaker explained things using examples like jalapeños and grapes. Though they look similar, they are very different, and this comparison helped me understand how appearances can be misleading. This idea was closely connected to the story, in which observation, understanding, and the proper use of words play essential roles. It helped me realise how important it is to look beyond the surface.

All the essential words from the story were clearly discussed, which helped me understand their meanings in context rather than just memorising them. The story also taught me to be more sensitive towards nature, people and situations. It showed how small details can carry deep meaning and how learning can happen through curiosity and observation.

Overall, this session was very enriching and enjoyable. It helped me understand the story better and taught me life lessons in a gentle, practical way. I truly appreciated the effort put into making learning so interactive and thoughtful, and I would love to attend more such sessions in the future.

Aarinee Tripathi, Sunbeam School Mau

“Thank you for this feedback, Aarinee!”, Brinda Ghosh, coach and mentor at My Good School.

“It was quite refreshing being present at My Good School session this Sunday morning. Both the chapters from “My Family and Other Animals” & “What You’re Looking for in the Library” intrigued the listeners, and there were some fascinating responses from the audience. It was good to see both their excitement and the ability to reciprocate. More such Sundays awaited." Harshita Dalawat, host at My Good School.

Sunbeam My Good School Retreat 2025 - Opening Ceremony and Highlights

 

My Good School Retreat 2025 opened today at Sunbeam Gramin School, Varanasi, in the presence of distinguished members of the Sunbeam Group of Educational Institutions, the Good Schools Alliance, and other esteemed guests. With 117 students and mentors from 16 outstation and core Sunbeam branches, the grand opening set the tone for four inspiring days of learning, reflection, and collaboration — where students from diverse and marginalized backgrounds come together to learn, share, and grow through experiential and value-driven education.

Anchored gracefully by Sunbeam Gramin School students, the day witnessed soulful chanting, music, dance, and dialogue — beautifully capturing the spirit of education beyond classrooms, one that nurtures empathy, equality, and real-world understanding.

The GSA Retreat 2025 an enriching confluence of learning, leadership, and culture! 🌟 Over five remarkable days, participants explored new ideas, engaged in reflective workshops, and experienced the spiritual and cultural essence of Varanasi. From teamwork to self-discovery, every moment inspired growth, connection, and purpose — truly embodying the spirit of the Good Schools Alliance. 💫

My Good School Retreat 2025 - Sunbeam Gramin School Feedback

Sunbeam Gramin School.pdf by Learning Forward India Foundation

Thank you, Shweta Morolia for filing the report and for all you do to spread the #JoyOfLearning

The PYDS Team Presentation at the My Good School Retreat 2025

PYDS Presentation at the My Good School Retreat 2025 by Learning Forward India Foundation

Today, PYDS provides mentorship, healthcare, nutrition, and an education of the highest order to children who would otherwise never have gotten it.

"Life is for Giving"

Anoop Seth

Director & Secretary

Sunbeam School Lahartara Presentation - My Good School Retreat 2025

Sunbeam Lahartara: My Good School Philosophy by Learning Forward India Foundation

The YES Way through the lens of the students at the Sunbeam Lahartara School. How do we follow the My Good School Philosophy of Service, Skill, Sport and Study at our school?

Echoes of Experience: Student Insights from the Retreat

Peer Learning in Action: Reflections from the My Good School Retreat 2025

We all learn best through shared experiences—with peers who walk alongside us and mentors who guide us thoughtfully. From April 11 to 14, 2025, students from various schools gathered for the My Good School Retreat at the serene and lush Khan Farm, located near Rajaji National Park in Haridwar.

Set against the backdrop of nature, this Retreat was a celebration of fun, friendship, learning, and a lifetime of memories. Over four days, students engaged in enriching conversations, collaborative tasks, reflective journaling, and soulful moments that nurtured not just their intellect but also their hearts.

More than just an event, the Retreat was a journey of self-discovery, shared values, and meaningful connection. With this experience, learning flowed freely, not through textbooks, but through dialogue, activities, and quiet moments under the open sky.

Let us now hear directly from those who experienced it—the students themselves. Their journal entries, carefully penned and compiled into a digital folder, offer a glimpse into their minds and hearts. Through their reflections, we see the impact of learning beyond the classroom, shaped by empathy, understanding, and inspiration.

Step into their stories and experience the magic of the My Good School Retreat 2025—through the voices that matter most.

Students united in nature, discovering joy, learning, and lifelong bonds at the My Good School Retreat.
Visit www.inyouth.in for more details. Keep following us for Reading, Reflection, and building Relationships.

"As mentors, we don't just teach—we listen, guide, and grow alongside our students."

The YES Way (TYW) - Service, Skill, Sport and Study - our log books for the My Good School Retreat.

The students and teachers from the participating schools formed teams to cherish the #JoyOfLearning at the Retreat. The groups shared their journey of learning in four presentations, the first, The Fastest Cheetah, is followed by three more in the following posts:

• The Fastest Cheetah - TYW 1

• The Lion King - TYW 2

• Black Cat Group - TYW 3

• The Brave Dog - TYW 4

Manisha Khanna
GSA Ambassador

The YES Way: The Brave Dog - TYW 4

Sunbeam Lahartara TYW 4 by Learning Forward India Foundation

The YES Way: Black Cat Group - TYW 3

Sunbeam Suncity TYW 3 by Learning Forward India Foundation

#ThoughfulThursdays - Poetry Sessions

The sessions at hosted at 5:30 PM on Thursdays our universal evening #JoyOfLearning time! Ms. Brinda Ghosh curates the poetry session, in which we discuss the importance of sharing personal compositions and exploring different poetic forms.  

If you wish to join us, please join the GSI Jounal Group in the GSA Whatsapp Community. For assistance, kind send a WhatsApp Message to +91 9811133900 and quote #ThoughfulThursdays

My Good School · GSA Poetry Session 27th February 2025

Fireside Chat with Christa - 14th November 2024

https://photos.app.goo.gl/yvPxMmWfMh3MY4T68

Check out the Photo Album

Follow the: VIEW RECORDING - 87 mins - courtesy FATHOM - AI generated E.&.O.E.

Meeting Purpose

To discuss the Three Principles framework and share insights on managing insecurity through a story-based approach.

Key Takeaways

• The Three Principles (Mind, Consciousness, Thought) work together to create our personal reality
• Understanding thought as the source of feelings allows us to choose more positive perspectives
• Recognizing separate realities fosters empathy and improves relationships
• Connecting with nature and inner wisdom can lead to valuable insights and personal growth

Topics

Introduction of Christa Campsall

• Teacher since 1977 with degrees in education and leadership
• Introduced to Sidney Banks' philosophy in her 20s, which transformed her understanding of thought and reality
• Co-authored story-based curriculum to share principles with children and teenagers

The Three Principles Framework

• Mind + Consciousness + Thought = Reality
• Mind: Universal source of intelligence
• Consciousness: Awareness of existence
• Thought: Guide through the world as free-thinking agents
• Understanding this framework allows for changing one's reality and managing insecurity

Story: "Many Faces of Insecurity"

• Protagonist Jay experiences insecurity during frequent moves and school changes
• Initially struggles with isolation after a move, then overcompensates with popularity
• Learns to recognize insecure thinking and make conscious choices about his behavior
• Realizes the power of inner wisdom and free will in steering his "car of life"

Masks of Insecurity

• Discussed various manifestations of insecurity (e.g., aggression, arrogance, procrastination)
• Emphasized these are not inherent traits but temporary states driven by thought

Understanding Thought and Separate Realities

• All feelings derive from the power of thought
• Negative thoughts lead to lower quality feelings, positive thoughts to higher quality feelings
• Each person has a unique reality, fostering respect for different perspectives

Practical Applications

• Letting go of unproductive thoughts rather than ruminating
• Using positive thinking and music to manage insecurity
• Recognizing the value of time spent in nature for clarity and connection

Next Steps

• Reflect on personal takeaways from the session
• Practice awareness of thought patterns and their impact on feelings
• Appreciate nature and take time for reflection to gain insights
• Apply understanding of separate realities to improve relationships and communication

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Thank you, in six months we made it to 1400 subscribers #JoyOfLearning

- Sandeep Dutt

Read on Substack

At Good Schools Alliance, we are working to revolutionise education, driven by our passion for delivering top-notch learning opportunities to all. Our journey started with a vision to make education available to all, no matter where they come from. Our main goal is to cultivate an environment of trust and continual growth.

Good Schools India (GSI) Journal is our reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Your contributions help empower individuals with personal and social development. You will feel a sense of deep satisfaction as you help young people prepare to face the world with #JoyOfLearning.

Read with us at The My Good School Retreat

My Good School Retreat 2024 

Find out more:

https://schooleducation.com/my-good-school-retreat 

The Impact Study by Kunal Rajpurohit

Three Impactful Years and three cheers to our Fellow Analyst Kunal and the intern's team #JoyOfLearning #MyGoodSchool #GoodSchoolsAlliance #HappyTeachers

Birthday Greetings from JDS School

Lavneet Kaur Grade 9

Yanishka Grade 9

Komal, Class - 9th , Section - Pansy

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

Birthday Message from GSA Principal

Dear My Good 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.

Warmly

Manisha Khanna

GSA Principal