Showing posts with label learning. Show all posts
Showing posts with label learning. Show all posts

Saturday, 24 January 2026

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


Sunday, 18 January 2026

Memories, Stories, and Learning - Sunbeam School Ballia

Today, I attended a session of my Good School, and it was a pleasant and meaningful experience. Manisha ma’am read a beautiful story by Ruskin Bond about a station ๐Ÿš‰, which felt simple yet very touching.

She asked us thoughtful questions about remembering places and how some places create memories that stay with us forever ๐Ÿ’ญ๐Ÿ’—. We also had a small discussion about stamps ๐Ÿ“จ, through which I learned that even small things can hold stories and value.

The session was very nice and informative, and Manisha ma’am shared many good thoughts. Overall, I really enjoyed the session and learned something meaningful from it ๐ŸŒผ.

Ishika Singh, Class IX

In today’s session, firstly Mrs. Brinda Gosh ma’am read Chapter 2 of the story “My Family and the Other Animals”. It was such an interesting story, and ma’am also asked some questions related to the chapter.

This session was so amazing and knowledgeable, and we also learned many new things ✨.

In the next session, Mrs Manisha Khanna ma’am read the story about a station ๐Ÿš‰ from the Ruskin Bond book. After finishing the adventure chapter, we discussed some questions about reading with Mr. Jugiv Singh, sir and Mrs Manisha Khanna, ma’am. They gave us some tips on the topic.

Thank you ☺️

Talat Bano

Monday, 12 January 2026

Turning Stories into Strength - Sunbeam School, Ballia


Reflections from My Good School on the 4th of January 2026

Today's Good Schools Alliance session was exciting and enjoyable. Jugiv sir read stories that helped us learn about Japanese culture ๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต and essential life skills. Before the session with Manisha ma'am began, she conducted a brief quiz on the New Year and reading habits, which prompted me to reflect on how I want to improve myself in 2026. We also listened to stories by Ruskin Bond, which were simple, meaningful, and inspiring. Overall, the session motivated me to read more, learn new things, and develop good habits.

Ishika Singh, Class IX

Today's session was engaging, meaningful, and informative. It helped me understand the importance of reading, positive thinking, and good values. During the session, we listened to a book reading that inspired me to believe that books can guide us and help us grow in life. The reading was engaging and made the session more enjoyable. 

Overall, today's Good School session motivated me to read more books, learn new things, and become a better and more confident student. 

Aadhya Gupta, Class V

In today's Hindi book-reading session, Manisha ma'am presented a short yet interesting set of questions that focused on the real benefits of reading and reflection. While answering these questions, I came to understand the importance of reflection and the valuable skills it cultivates. Subsequently, we read a short story about a girl who made the winning catch at the end of a cricket match. The story highlighted essential lessons, including time management and the importance of providing equal opportunities to everyone.

Additionally, Jugjiv sir explained that we should believe in ourselves and always try to do our best rather than worrying too much about the outcome. He emphasised that our actions and efforts matter more than the outcome. While talking about luck, he quoted a beautiful saying by a golf player: *"The harder I practice, the luckier I get."* This taught me that luck supports us when we are willing to put in sincere hard work.

Akanksha Rai, Class IX

Sunday, 30 November 2025

Learning, Connection, and Growth - Sunbeam School Lahartara

 

My Good School by Manisha Khanna

A Sunday morning becomes truly enriching when spent reading, reflecting, and nurturing meaningful relationships. The students of Sunbeam School, Lahartara, embody this beautifully as they take time to think deeply about their Sunday School experiences. Through stories, thoughtful discussions, and shared moments, they not only strengthen their understanding but also build stronger bonds with one another. Their reflections show that learning becomes more fulfilling when guided by empathy, curiosity, and companionship—transforming each Sunday into a powerful step toward personal growth.

Learning with Heart - Lotus Petals Foundation

 

My Good School

A wonderful way to relax on a Sunday morning is to read, reflect, and build meaningful relationships. The students of Lotus Petal Foundation embody this spirit beautifully as they pause to think deeply about their experiences in Sunday School. Through stories, discussions, and shared moments, they not only strengthen their understanding but also connect more closely with one another. Their reflections reveal how learning becomes richer when paired with empathy, curiosity, and companionship—turning each Sunday into a meaningful step toward personal growth.

Monday, 24 November 2025

GSA Calendar December 2025


 My Good School

7th  December 2025

Book Reading- What You Are Looking For Is in the Library
Book Reading- เคฆी เคต्เคนिเคธเคฒिंเค— เคธ्เค•ूเคฒเคฌॉเคฏ เค”เคฐ เค…เคจ्เคฏ เค•เคนाเคจिเคฏाँ

14th December 2025

Book Reading- The Inner Life of Animals
Book Reading- เคฆी เคต्เคนिเคธเคฒिंเค— เคธ्เค•ूเคฒเคฌॉเคฏ เค”เคฐ เค…เคจ्เคฏ เค•เคนाเคจिเคฏाँ

21st  December 2025
Amardeep Singh Screening of Episode 24
เคฌाเคฎ-เค-เคจाเคจเค• (เคจाเคจเค• เค•ी เคœ्เคฏोเคค) Allegory: A Tapestry of Guru Nanak's Travels 
Book Reading- What You Are Looking For Is in the Library

28th December 2025
We aim to inspire young minds, helping them navigate their dreams and aspirations as they embrace their goals. The YES workshop on Communication with Kartik Bajoria
Book Reading- My Family and Other Animals

The Teachers Academy

Brewing Knowledge 
Fridays at 5.30 PM: Book Reading with Neelashi Mangal, entry by invitation from The English Book Depot. We are currently reading: What Did You Ask At School Today: A Handbook Of Child Learning.

Saturday Masterclass 
Read And Lead at 5:30 PMCo-hosted by Gurdeep Kaur and Sandeep Dutt, for subscribers only. Sign up on The Teachers Academy website at www.DilJeeto.com.

Learning Forward Saturday
Early Childhood Development training sessions for teachers at 2:00 PM every Saturday - Hosted by Brinda Ghosh and Neelashi Mangal. You may join the cohort from The Teachers Academy website www.DilJeeto.com

GSA Meetings and Events
GSA Squad
We review programs and plan for the coming week.
At 5:30 PM every Monday on Zoom - GSA Coordinators, Volunteers, and Mentors. #JoyOfGiving 

AFA Monthly Review 
Zoom Meeting for Arthur Foot Academy Special Projects Review: 4th Friday of Every Month

Good Schools of India

Are you signed up for the Good Schools of India Weekly? Don't miss valuable insights—published every Monday at 7:00 AM! #JoyOfLearning. Subscribe at: www.GSI.in

Open to All

Follow the Brewing Knowledge WhatsApp Group. If you wish to join, please send a request by WhatsApp to Vikram Kumar at +91 97331 97341 or email vk@ebd.in

Sunday, 23 November 2025

Sunday Reading Session and YES Workshop - Sunbeam Bhagwanpur

Today, we learnt about the foundations of effective communication in the YES workshop by Kartik Sir. I learnt about the importance of maintaining humility and sensitivity to become a better speaker. Other than this, being alert to factors like positive body language, eye contact, and smiling makes us connect better with our audience.

Then, in the chapter Artificial Environment, we learnt how urban spaces can actually contribute to preserving animals, especially the endangered ones. I learnt about agrarian deserts, which changed my idea about deserts being arid regions and lacking trees.

Shristi Prasad
VII
Sunbeam Bhagwanpur

In today's YES workshop by Karthik Sir, we got to learn about the importance of maintaining communication skills. We also learnt about the various essentials of communication, like sensitivity, humility, and sounding compelling enough to ensure effective, positive communication. If one maintains eye contact, body language, appropriate hand gestures, and a smile on one’s face, along with being aware of the content one is speaking, one will engage the crowd better. To become a better public speaker, besides understanding one’s crowd or audience, one needs to develop these qualities in oneself.
In the chapter Artificial Environment, Brinda Ma’am read out the disadvantages and advantages of artificial environments that affect animals. Besides talking about pet houses, cages, and zoos, we also learnt about deserts like agrarian deserts that have thousands of plants and house several animals, making us call them animal farms.

We also learnt about the role of animals in human activities like farms for grazing and logging. Sometimes animals are not happy because no one asks them whether they wish to work or not, so we as humans should not lose our humanity while forcing animals to work for us.

Gauri Agrawal
VIII
Sunbeam Bhagwanpur

In a world where AI is taking the lead in guiding the generation on how to present themselves suitably—be it an office presentation, a simple debate, or a speech delivery at the morning assembly—genuine human communication is suffering a setback. Humans are failing to communicate their emotions to each other through words. Wasn't verbal communication a primitive method among humans? So why are we failing today?

We had Kartik Sir in the Sunday YES session with us to tell the generation the basic pointers for effective communication—things like sensitivity, humility, being astute, sounding compelling enough, and such that one remembers our words and understands us.
Today's generation is indeed very sensitive. So, to convey our thoughts without hurting anyone's emotions is a big deal. Social media is a boon and a bane that way. Chatbots are there to emotionally sustain us as well as destroy us. Therefore, it is indeed very important to ensure that we are becoming better at communicating so that we have less dependency on AI for communication.

Lavanya Jaiswal
VIII F
Sunbeam Bhagwanpur

Meaningful Sunday School Session - Sunbeam Ballia

Today I attended a Good School Alliance session with Kartik Sir, Jugjiv Sir, and Manisha Ma’am. They spoke about good communication, empathy, kindness, and being humble with everyone. In the end, there was a question-and-answer session where students shared their doubts, and they answered them with a lot of patience and clarity. It was a simple but very positive and inspiring session.

— Ishika Singh, 9th A


In today’s session, firstly, Mr Jugjiv Singh Sir introduced the great personality, Mr Kartik Sir. He told us about the “Construct Communication Paradigm,” in which he explained the types of communication. He also told us about:

  1. Competition

  2. Noise

  3. Deficit

  4. Sameness

  5. Apathy

  6. AI

  7. Global Stage

And the main topic of today’s session was communication.
This session was really awesome 
I really thank Mr Jugjiv Singh Sir for giving us this amazing opportunity to learn new things and improve our vocabulary 
— Talat Bano, 5C, Sunbeam School Ballia

Today’s Good School Alliance session was the most unique and interesting session. In the first session, we had a very special personality with us — Mr Kartik Sir. He is a writer, educator, and mental health advocate. The first session was about “Effective Communication.” In this class, I learnt about empathy, kindness, and many more values. This class helped me communicate with people positively.

We also had Mrs Brinda Ma’am. She read the story “Inner Life of Animals.” Through this story, we learnt about the feelings of animals. I also learnt how deep and strong the emotions of animals are, just like humans.

At the end, I would like to share that both the sessions were really inspiring, knowledgeable, and full of emotions.
 Thank you!!
— Janhvi Singh, 5C

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.

Saturday, 15 November 2025

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

Tuesday, 11 November 2025

Reading with Heart and Mind: Our Sunday Reflections at My Good School- Lotus Petal Foundation

 

Lotus Petal School

At Lotus Petal School, our Sunday Reading Sessions at My Good School help us see reading in a new light. Every story becomes a lesson in thinking, feeling, and growing.

Through the Four Fs — Fact, Feeling, Finding, and Future — we read with both heart and mind.
Fact helps us remember what happened,
Feeling lets us connect with the story,
Finding reveals hidden lessons, and
Future inspires us to apply them in life.

Each reading leaves us a little wiser, a little kinder, and more aware of the world around us. At My Good School, reading is not just an activity — it’s a way to learn and live better.

Lotus Petal Foundation



Thursday, 6 November 2025

Lessons of Heart and Humanity - Sunbeam School Ballia

Reflection on Today's Session at My Good School

Today's session of My Good School was truly enlightening and left an indelible mark on our hearts and minds. We were privileged to have Mrs Brinda Ghosh, ma’am, share with us the poignant tales from The Inner Life of Animals, illuminating the often-overlooked struggles animals face as they grow old. Her narrative not only sensitised us to their pain but also kindled within us a deeper sense of empathy and compassion.

The subsequent Hindi story, “เคฎिเคธ เคฌैเคฌ्เค•ॉเค• เค•ी เคฌเคก़ी เค‰ँเค—เคฒी,” masterfully narrated by Mrs Manisha ma’am, wove a captivating tapestry of emotions that kept us enthralled throughout. Its profound meaning continues to linger within us — a testament to the enduring power of storytelling.

Furthermore, Manisha ma’am’s inspiring tale of the deaf nurse imparted a moral that truly touched our hearts: “Don’t let your comfort hurt others.” This poignant reminder of our responsibility toward others will stay with us for a long time.

Today’s session, filled with stories, emotions, and values, was a masterclass in empathy, understanding, and kindness towards all beings.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Sandeep Dutt sir and Jugjiv sir for crafting this extraordinary platform where we can learn, grow, and reflect in an atmosphere of warmth and inclusivity. As we move forward, let us strive to embody these lessons — cultivating empathy, compassion, and kindness that radiate outward to touch the lives of everyone around us.

Thank you.

Iqra Meraj – IX F

Reflection on Today's Session at My Good School

Today’s session was truly inspiring and full of meaningful learning experiences. We were honoured to have Mrs Brinda Ghosh, ma’am, with us, who narrated stories from the book “The Inner Life of Animals.” Through them, we learned that animals, just like humans, face challenges as they grow old — for example, horses find it hard to stand, and some animals even suffer from diseases like dementia. The story encouraged us to imagine life beyond our world and think creatively.

We also had an engaging Hindi story, “เคฎिเคธ เคฌैเคฌ्เค•ॉเค• เค•ी เคฌเคก़ी เค‰ँเค—เคฒी,” beautifully narrated by Mrs Manisha ma’am. It carried deep meaning and kept us attentive throughout. Later, she also shared another inspiring story about a deaf nurse, teaching us a powerful moral:
“Don’t let your comfort hurt others.”

Another heartwarming part of the session was when my friends and I shared our reflections on the GSA retreat held in Varanasi.

Overall, today’s session was a blend of stories, emotions, and values — reminding us of empathy, understanding, and kindness toward both humans and animals. I am truly grateful to Sandeep Dutt, sir, and Jugjiv, sir, for providing us with such a wonderful platform to learn, grow, and reflect.

Ifra Wahid – Sunbeam Ballia

My Reflection

Good morning and Jai Hind!

Today’s class was very interesting and full of learning. First, Manisha Khanna, ma’am, began by asking us some MCQ questions, which made the class lively and fun. Everyone was excited to answer and see who got them right. After that, ma’am told us a beautiful story with a meaningful message that made us think deeply and enjoy learning.

Then, Brinda Ghosh, ma’am, joined our class and continued with the story “The Inner Life of Animals.” She explained how animals also have feelings, emotions, and thoughts just like humans. It was amazing to learn how animals can love, care, and even feel sad. I really liked how both ma’ams made the lesson interesting and easy to understand.

Today I learned many new things and felt happy to be part of such an engaging class.

Thank you!

Soumya Verma – Class 5C

Reflection on Today’s Session

Good morning and Jai Hind!

In my first session with Manisha ma’am, we read a story from Ruskin Bond’s Chapter 3. She began by asking questions related to our classmates and teachers, which made the class interactive. As she read the story, she also explained the meanings of difficult words, which helped us learn new vocabulary.

The second session was held with Brinda ma’am, who read from “The Inner Life of Animals.” During this session, I learned many new English words and fascinating facts about animals.

Thank you to everyone for the session!

Arnav Kumar Singh – Class 5C

Today's Reflection

The session began with Manisha ma’am asking us thoughtful questions to test our values and morals. Her questions made us reflect deeply on how we think and act.

Later, ma’am narrated a heart-touching story about a deaf nurse — how she communicated with her patients and cared for them with pure kindness. The story was truly inspiring and filled our hearts with admiration.
It left us with a powerful moral:
“Don’t let your comfort hurt others.”

In the second session, Brinda ma’am narrated a story from the book “The Inner Life of Animals.” The author beautifully personified the actions of aged animals, showing how their emotions and behaviours mirror those of humans.

Savita Singh – Class 9D

My Reflection

I attended a session conducted by Manisha ma’am under the Good School Alliance, and it was a truly engaging and meaningful experience. The session began with a fun quiz called “Naughty or Nice,” where we were given different situations and had to choose whether we would act kindly, wrongly, or not care at all. It made us think deeply about our actions and choices in everyday life.

After that, Manisha ma’am narrated a beautiful story by Ruskin Bond about a retired nurse who took care of three children in a small cottage. The story was touching and showed the values of love, care, and kindness, which she explained wonderfully. I actively participated in the quiz, answered the first and second questions correctly, and received appreciation from ma’am.

Overall, the session was inspiring, interactive, and full of valuable lessons that encouraged us to be more thoughtful and compassionate.

Ishika – Class 9A

My Reflection on Today's Session

In today’s session, we had Manisha ma’am, who began by asking us about the values we should have. Then she narrated a story of a “Deaf Nurse,” teaching us about how she communicated with her patients and treated them with care.

After Manisha ma’am’s class, we had Brinda ma’am, who continued with “The Inner Life of Animals.” She asked questions in between and explained difficult words, which helped me focus more.

The session was truly knowledgeable and eye-opening.

Thank you! ✨

Janhvi Singh – Class 5C

My Reflection on Today's Good School Session

Today’s session was full of learning and inspiration. Manisha ma’am started the class with interesting questions that made everyone think. Then she shared a meaningful story that taught us about good values and kindness. The story had a beautiful message that helped us understand how important it is to help others and stay positive.

After that, Brinda ma’am continued the session with “The Inner Life of Animals.” She explained how animals also have feelings, emotions, and care for each other just like humans do.

I really enjoyed both the stories and learned that compassion and understanding make us better human beings.

Thank you!

Talat Bano – Class 5C 

My Reflection

๐ŸŒธ Today’s session was one of the most inspiring classes I’ve attended. Manisha ma’am began with a short talk about values and then told us the beautiful story “The Deaf Nurse.” I loved how it showed that true communication isn’t only through words but through kindness, actions, and care. It made me realise that even small gestures can make a big difference in someone’s life.

After that, Brinda ma’am continued with the story “The Inner Life of Animals.” I was amazed to learn that animals have their own world of emotions and thoughts. It felt heartwarming to understand how deeply they can love and feel.

By the end of the session, I felt thoughtful and happy. The class was not just about learning stories — it was about learning life lessons that will always stay with me.

Thank you! ๐ŸŒŸ

Aadhya – Class 5B

My Reflection on Today’s Good School Session

Today’s session was full of learning and inspiration. Manisha ma’am started the class with some interesting questions that made everyone think deeply. Then she shared a meaningful story that taught us about good values and kindness. The story had a beautiful message that helped us understand how important it is to help others and stay positive.

After that, Brinda ma’am continued the session with “The Inner Life of Animals.” She explained how animals also have feelings, emotions, and care for each other just like humans do.

I really enjoyed both the stories and learned that compassion and understanding make us better human beings.

Thank you!!
Arohi Jaiswal, Class 5B

Design by Sunbeam School

Sunday, 2 November 2025

Reflection: Sunbeam My Good School Retreat 2025

As we depart for our homes, the wall stands alone, waiting for our next visit!

The Good School Retreat 2025 was truly one of the most memorable and enriching experiences of my school life. Held at Sunbeam Suncity, Varanasi, and hosted by Sunbeam Gramin School, the retreat brought together students from different schools under the Good School Alliance — all with one goal: to learn, share, and grow together.

Our journey began on 26th October, when we boarded the train to Varanasi with excitement bubbling inside us. Upon arrival, we were warmly welcomed at Sunbeam Suncity. The first day began with flag bearers’ practice, followed by ice-breaking games that instantly helped us bond with students from other schools.

The next day, we had our opening ceremony, where we got the opportunity to meet inspiring personalities like Mr Sandeep Dutt, author of My Good School, Mr Jugjiv Sir, Headmaster of the Good School Alliance, Nilashi Ma’am, and many others. The morning started with yoga, after which we went for our service project visits. Our group went to Banaras Beads, India’s largest exporter and single-unit bead-making factory, while other groups visited Kiran Village, where we saw how specially-abled children are empowered through education and skills. Both visits were eye-opening experiences that taught us about hard work, empathy, and real-life learning. Later that evening, we had tea and snacks, a reading session by Jugjiv Sir from the book My Good School, followed by an interactive Joy of Learning activity by Nilashi Ma’am.

On Day 3, the day began with an energetic Zumba session, which filled everyone with positive vibes. Then came the Inme Activities led by the Inme team, where we played games that taught us teamwork, communication, and leadership in the most fun and creative ways. That evening, we were treated to a special Baati Chokha dinner, which was absolutely delicious! The day ended beautifully with another Joy of Learning session by Nilashi Ma’am, where we reflected and interacted even more deeply.

Day 4 was my personal favourite! We went on a Varanasi Darshan, visiting the archaeological site of the Buddha Temple, the monument of Rani Lakshmi Bai, and Assi Ghat, where we saw the real home of Tulsidas Ji. Learning about the ancient monasteries and their preservation was fascinating — it felt like stepping into history itself. Later that evening, we had our Talent Show, where our school performed a poetry piece and a rap. Everyone loved our performance, and the appreciation we received made us feel so proud! We also got to see other amazing performances — from dance and singing to flute playing — each one filled with pure talent and joy.

Finally, on Day 5 (30th October), we visited Sunbeam Gramin School, where we attended the morning assembly and participated in the YES Workshop. Throughout the retreat, we had been working on our flip charts, a 25-page reflection journal highlighting what we learned from the four S’s — Study, Skill, Sports, and Service. In the workshop, we presented our learnings and shared how these values are implemented in our school. It was a truly meaningful way to end the retreat.

As we departed for Ballia, I carried with me not just memories but life lessons — about joyful learning, teamwork, service, and friendship. The retreat wasn’t just a trip; it was an experience that helped me grow as a student and as a person. ๐ŸŒŸ

Janvi Singh
Sunbeam School Ballia

Roots, Circuits, and Stories: Lessons on Growth, Connection, and Being Human - Sunbeam Varuna

1. Lessons of The Hidden Life of Trees:

Trees are interconnected through fungal networks, showing us the importance of building strong relationships and community. Trees adapt to harsh weather conditions, pests, and diseases, teaching us to be resilient in the face of challenges. They bend and flex in strong winds, demonstrating the value of being flexible and adaptable.
Trees grow slowly and steadily over time, showing us the importance of patience and perseverance in achieving our goals. They provide shade, shelter, food, and oxygen for countless creatures, teaching us the value of selflessness and giving to others.
Trees go through cycles of growth, decay, and rebirth, reminding us to accept and embrace change and impermanence.
Trees have been on our planet for millions of years, holding ancient wisdom and knowledge that can teach us about the importance of preserving traditional knowledge and respecting the natural world.
Trees live in harmony with their environment, showing us the importance of living in balance with nature and respecting the interconnectedness of all living things.
These lessons from The Hidden Life of Trees can inspire us to live more mindful, compassionate, and sustainable lives.

2. A fascinating topic! AI vs AI

It refers to the competition, collaboration, or comparison between different artificial intelligence systems. This can happen in various domains, such as:
AI-powered agents are competing against each other in games like chess, Go, or video games. Different AI algorithms or models are competing to achieve better performance, accuracy, or efficiency.
AI has introduced chatbots or language models engaging in conversations, debating, or generating text. It controls robots competing in tasks like navigation, manipulation, or human-robot interaction.
The AI vs AI paradigm leads to improved performance through competition. These systems can push each other to improve.
Collaboration between AI systems can lead to new ideas, approaches, or solutions. Testing AI systems against each other can help identify vulnerabilities and improve overall robustness.
AI vs AI also raises concerns about: AI systems may perpetuate or amplify existing biases when competing or collaborating. Unintended consequences or loss of control may arise when AI systems interact or compete. Questions about accountability, transparency, and human oversight become increasingly important.

The AI vs AI landscape is rapidly evolving, with potential applications in fields like:
Education — adaptive learning systems, Healthcare — diagnosis, treatment, or patient care, Cybersecurity — threat detection, response, or mitigation.
Thus, as AI continues to advance, the AI vs AI dynamic will play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of artificial intelligence.

3. Lessons by Cinnamon

The book My Name is Cinnamon teaches us many lessons that can pour a drastic change in our life...
Cinnamon teaches the importance of spreading warmth and kindness, just like its aroma fills the air. As a spice, Cinnamon has been traded and traveled extensively, teaching us to be resilient and adaptable in the face of change.
Cinnamon's unique flavor and aroma remind us to celebrate our individuality and stay true to ourselves.
Cinnamon provides comfort and solace, teaching us to be present and supportive for others in times of need. The warmth and coziness associated with Cinnamon encourage us to cultivate gratitude and appreciation for life's simple pleasures. Cinnamon's soothing properties remind us to prioritize self-care and nourishment for our minds, bodies, and spirits.
Cinnamon's rich history and cultural significance inspire us to explore and discover new things about ourselves and the world. The bold and warm flavor of Cinnamon emboldens us to take risks, build confidence, and pursue our passions. Cinnamon's role in bringing people together through food and tradition teaches us the value of building strong connections and community.
It's just a reminder to live a life filled with warmth, kindness, resilience, and authenticity.

4. Cinnamon Speaks

Hello friends,
My name is Cinnamon. Do you know I sound like...

C - Compassionate:
You spread warmth and kindness wherever you go.

I - Inspiring:
Your unique flavour and spirit inspire others to be their best selves.

N - Nurturing:
You provide comfort and solace to those around you, just like the soothing properties of cinnamon.

N - Nimble:
You're adaptable and resilient, navigating life's challenges with ease and grace.

A - Authentic:
You stay true to yourself, embracing your individuality and celebrating your unique strengths.

M - Mindful:
You cultivate gratitude and appreciation for life's simple pleasures, finding joy in everyday moments.

M - Meaningful:
You add depth and purpose to the lives of those around you, making a positive impact in your community.

O - Optimistic:
You radiate warmth and positivity, illuminating the path for others and inspiring hope and confidence.

N - Nourishing:
You prioritise self-care and nourishment, taking care of your mind, body, and spirit.

This is the creative interpretation of the name, Cinnamon!

23/02/2025

1. Why does the book focus so much on the role of community and different communities in India?

My Name is Cinnamon emphasises the role of community and different communities in India because it uses the protagonist's experiences navigating various social groups within Indian society to explore themes of identity, belonging, and acceptance, particularly for adopted children, highlighting how different communities can impact one's life and sense of self within a complex social landscape.

Key points about the book's focus on community:
Social dynamics:
The story delves into the nuances of class, caste, and regional differences within India, showing how these factors can influence Cinnamon's interactions and experiences.

Family and kinship:
The concept of family extends beyond the immediate nuclear unit, with the extended family and community playing a significant role in Cinnamon's life.

Adoption narrative:
As an adopted child, Cinnamon's search for belonging is deeply tied to his understanding of his biological family and the community he is adopted into.

School environment:
The school setting provides a microcosm of Indian society, showcasing the dynamics between different social groups and how Cinnamon navigates them.

2. How did you come up with the name "Cinnamon" for the main character?

The name "Cinnamon" evokes warmth, comfort, and a sense of sweetness. It's a unique and memorable name that suggests a character who is:

Warm and nurturing, with a caring personality.
Comforting and soothing, with a calming presence.
Sweet and gentle, with a kind heart.

In a story, Cinnamon could be a character who brings people together, provides solace in times of need, and adds a touch of warmth and sweetness to those around her.

3. When do you think is the best time to tell an adopted child about their adoption?

The ideal time to tell an adopted child about their adoption varies depending on the child's age, maturity, and individual development. Here are some general guidelines:
Start sharing simple, age-appropriate information about their adoption story, using positive and reassuring language.
Gradually provide more details about their adoption, encouraging questions and open discussions.
Engage in more in-depth discussions about their adoption, exploring emotions, and addressing potential concerns.

When discussing adoption with a child, consider the following:

  • Be honest, open, and positive.

  • Use simple, clear language.

  • Validate their feelings and emotions.

  • Be prepared for ongoing conversations.

  • Respect their boundaries and pace.

It's necessary to remember — every child is unique, and the right time to discuss adoption will depend on their individual needs and developmental stage.

4. How should an adopted child react if they are being bullied at school?

Bullying is a sensitive and serious issue that must be stopped at its initial step. Everyone's respect must be followed and cared for well. When an adopted child goes through bullying at school, he has no way to go ahead but to tolerate and suffer.
He takes a few deep breaths and tries not to react impulsively. He tries to find a trusted adult, such as a teacher, school counsellor, or parent, and report the bullying.
If someone is bullying, he must share emotions and concerns with a trusted adult or friend. He should write downhis  thoughts and feelings to process and release emotions. He must try to celebrate individual strengths, talents, and accomplishments. He should surround himself with positive, supportive friends and family.
If bullying is related to adoption, talk to a trusted adult about how to address these specific comments or behaviours. He must share positive aspects of his adoption story with friends and family to promote understanding and pride.

Stop...
Bullying is not okay.

No one deserves to be bullied, and it's not the child's fault.

Adoption is a positive experience.
Adoption is a loving and selfless act that provides a child with a forever family.

5. What strategies can aspiring writers implement to balance quality and quantity in their writing process?

The general strategies for balancing quality and quantity in writing... very first we will talk about quality-oriented steps to be taken...

Set clear goals and deadlines:
Establish specific, achievable objectives for each writing session.

Develop a writing routine:
Create a consistent schedule to ensure dedicated time for writing.

Outline and plan:
Organise ideas, structure, and plot before starting to write.

Revise and edit:
Allocate time for reviewing, revising, and editing to refine your work.

Seek feedback:
Share your work with others to receive constructive feedback and improve.

Now we have to discuss quantity-focused steps to be followed:

Write regularly:
Commit to a regular writing schedule, even if it's just 10–15 minutes a day.

Use writing prompts:
Utilise prompts or exercises to generate new ideas and stay motivated.

Set word count targets:
Challenge yourself to write a certain number of words within a set timeframe.

Practice freewriting:
Write freely without stopping or worrying about grammar, spelling, or perfection.

Experiment with different formats:
Try writing in different styles, such as poetry, short stories, or journalism.

By implementing these strategies, aspiring writers can set a balance between quality and quantity, leading to improved productivity, creativity, and overall writing success.

Sunbeam Varuna

Thursday, 30 October 2025

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

Monday, 27 October 2025

GSA Calendar November 2025

 My Good School

2nd November 2025
Book Reading- The Inner Life of Animals
Book Reading- เคฆी เคต्เคนिเคธเคฒिंเค— เคธ्เค•ूเคฒเคฌॉเคฏ เค”เคฐ เค…เคจ्เคฏ เค•เคนाเคจिเคฏाँ

9th November 2025
Book Reading- The Door-To-Door Bookstore
Book Reading- เคฆी เคต्เคนिเคธเคฒिंเค— เคธ्เค•ूเคฒเคฌॉเคฏ เค”เคฐ เค…เคจ्เคฏ เค•เคนाเคจिเคฏाँ

16th November 2025
We aim to inspire young minds, helping them navigate their dreams and aspirations while embracing their goals. The YES workshop on Communication with Kartik Bajoria
Book Reading- The Inner Life of Animals

23rd November 2025
Book Reading- The Door-To-Door Bookstore
Book Reading- เคฆी เคต्เคนिเคธเคฒिंเค— เคธ्เค•ूเคฒเคฌॉเคฏ เค”เคฐ เค…เคจ्เคฏ เค•เคนाเคจिเคฏाँ

30th November 2025
Amardeep Singh Screening of Episode 23
เค—ुเคฐु เคšेเคฒा (เคฎुเคฐ्เคถเคฆ เค”เคฐ เค…เคญिเคฒाเคทी):Allegory: A Tapestry of Guru Nanak's Travels 
Book Reading- The Door-To-Door Bookstore

The Teachers Academy

Brewing Knowledge 
Fridays at 5.30 PM: Book Reading with Neelashi Mangal
What Did You Ask At School Today: A Handbook Of Child Learning

Saturday Masterclass 
Meeting at 5:30 PM: The Courage to Be Disliked: The life-changing global bestseller recommended by Steven Bartlett on 'Diary of a CEO’, co-hosted by Gurdeep Kaur and Sandeep Dutt

Learning Forward Saturday
Early Childhood Development training sessions for teachers at 2:00 PM every Saturday - Hosted by Ms Neelashi Mangal

GSA Meetings and Events 

GSA Squad
We review programs and plan for the coming week.
At 5:30 PM every Monday on Zoom - GSA Coordinators, Volunteers, and Mentors. #JoyOfGiving 

AFA Weekly Review
Zoom Meeting for Arthur Foot Academy: 4th Friday of Every Month at 4:00 PM in association with Asteya Services

Good Schools of India
Are you signed up for the Good Schools of India Weekly yet? Don't miss out on valuable insights—published every Monday at 7:00 AM! #JoyOfLearning 
Subscribe at: www.GSI.in

Meet and Greet with Dr Manu Kapur
Friday 28th November 5:30 
Productive Failure: Unlocking Deeper Learning Through the Science of Failing
MANU KAPUR developed the theory of Productive Failure and applies it in classrooms and workplaces around the world to transform learning and growth. He is a Professor of Learning Sciences and Higher Education at ETH Zurich, Switzerland, and has spent the past two decades understanding the science of how people learn.
Open to All
Follow the Brewing Knowledge WhatsApp Group for further details


Annual Day and AGA at the Arthur Foot Academy 14th of November 2025
By invitation only, please contact Kunal Rajpurohit at KR@LearningForward.org.in

Learning Through Communication and Conscious Listening - Sunbeam School Ballia

In today's session, we had the great personality Mr. Kartik Sir. He told us about the types of communication and gave us more knowledge about communication. He also guided us on how we can communicate with different types of living beings on Earth, like animals, humans, etc.

He also played a song which was about emotions.
He told us about the benefits of conscious listening.

I am really happy to get this beautiful ❤️ opportunity to join this webinar, understand new things, and improve my vocabulary.

In the second session, there was a ma’am, Mrs Manisha Khanna. She read a story called "Taiyar Ho Jao". It was a very interesting story related to scouts — an amazing session indeed.
Both sessions were really awesome, and we learned many new things.
I really thank Sandeep Dutt Sir and Jugjiv Sir for encouraging us to come and enjoy this platform. ๐ŸŒธ

Thank you,
Talat Bano, 5C

Through this session on Communication Skills and Conscious Listening,

I understood that communication is not just about speaking, but also about listening with full attention and awareness. I learned about different types of communication—verbal, non-verbal, visual, and written—and how each plays a unique role in expressing ideas and emotions.

The session also highlighted the importance of being a conscious listener, which means understanding before responding and being aware of what the other person truly wants to convey.

Developing conscious listening skills helps in avoiding small misunderstandings that can turn into big mistakes later. I realised that when we listen carefully, we can interpret messages better, form relevant opinions, and respond thoughtfully.

This class taught me that effective communication is a fundamental skill that empowers us in personal, academic, and professional life. Overall, it made me more aware of the value of mindful communication and how it can positively impact our interactions with others.

Arushi Srivastava, IX A

Today’s Good School Alliance session was really insightful. Mr Kartik talked about speaking skills and helped us understand that everyone thinks differently, which affects how we communicate. His tips on coping with the fear of public speaking—like focusing on the message rather than worrying about judgment—felt practical and easy to try.

After that, Ms Manisha shared a story titled "เค…เคฌ เคคैเคฏाเคฐ เคนो เคœाเค“". Her storytelling was lively; it highlighted the importance of being ready and taking action.

Overall, the session prompted me to reflect on how I approach communication and fear, and I feel motivated to speak more confidently while being aware of different perspectives.

Janvi Singh, IX F

Communication is More Than Words

Communication is more than words — it’s understanding, observing, and connecting. This was the spark that Kartik Sir ignited in our communication session. What struck me the most was the power of being a good listener. Listening actively, noticing subtle details, and valuing every perspective are the foundations of meaningful communication, and Kartik Sir made this idea come alive with real-life examples.

I sincerely appreciate the example explanation of my question by Sandeep Sir, showing how our Good School Alliance itself is an example of how one can build a career in social media on the platform of mass communication.

Astha Mishra, IX D

In today's class, we had the great personality Mr. Kartik Sir. He informed us about the various types of communication and provided us with additional knowledge on how to communicate effectively with animals, humans, and others. He also played songs that were about emotions and explained the benefits of conscious listening.

I am really grateful to have this opportunity to join this great webinar, as I got to learn new things and improve my vocabulary.

The second session was by Mrs Manisha Khanna. Ma’am, read the story "Taiyar Ho Jao", an interesting story related to scouts.

I really thank Sandeep Sir and Jugjiv Sir for creating such an interactive platform.

Thank you,
Riffat Bano, 6D
Jai Hind!

Dear readers, I am Aayush Kumar Singh of Class X-A, and this is my reflection.

The session began with a short conversation between me and Manisha Ma’am about Diwali and the excitement of buying things for the festival. We talked about how everyone gets busy preparing for the celebration and how the festival brings a happy spirit everywhere.

After that, Kartik Sir showed us two versions of the same video, each with different background music. It was surprising to see how just changing the music could completely change the feeling and message of the video. Through this, we understood that communication is not only through words, but also through emotions, tone, and expression.

Sir then explained how humans and animals communicate in their own ways — humans through language, and animals through gestures and sounds. This helped me realise that real communication comes from understanding feelings, not just speaking.

Overall, the session taught me about empathy, connection, and meaningful communication — lessons that help us express ourselves better in every form of life.

Aayush Kumar Singh, Class X-A

In today’s session, we had the privilege of learning from the inspiring personality, Mr Kartik Sir, who taught us about various methods of communication and their objectives. He also explained the importance of conscious listening and how we can become better listeners.

One of the most interesting parts of the class was when he showed us a video that demonstrated how changing the background music can completely alter the interpretation of a scene.

After Kartik Sir’s class, we had Manisha Ma’am’s session, where we read the story ‘เคคैเคฏाเคฐ เคนो เคœाเค“’. I really enjoyed this class and found it both engaging and meaningful.

I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to Sandeep Dutt Sir and Jugjiv Sir for giving me this wonderful opportunity to learn and explore new ideas on this platform.

Thank you,
Adrika Sahu, Class 8 A


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.

Reflections Since 2021