Annual Report

The academic year 2023-24 was a significant milestone for us as it marked the school's tenth anniversary and the first batch of children sitting for their board exams. Our primary focus was on enhancing the learning process throughout the year.

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The year began with an in-house training session led by Mr. Sujay, the founder of the school. During this session, the teaching staff revisited the school’s vision and mission, engaging in spiritual preparation to cultivate the right mindset for working with children and parents. Additionally, the adults participated in an interactive session with Ms. Sonal Raja, our Performance Coach / Special Educator, who regularly supports children requiring extra assistance. A parent volunteer also conducted a three-day workshop on Heartfulness Meditation, which focused on relaxation and meditation, rejuvenation, and building an inner connection.

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Parent Orientation and the Start of the Academic Year

The year opened with an orientation session by our Founder Mr. Sujay for parents of new admissions, aimed at helping them understand the school's philosophy and the psychological needs of elementary-aged children. Parents were also updated on administrative procedures.

The academic learning journey commenced with bridging activities designed to ease the transition for new children and foster relationships between them and the staff. Returning children were given time to recap concepts after the summer break, ensuring both new and existing children had the opportunity to work together and adapt to the environment.

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Learning and Development

In the elementary environment, children were introduced to cosmic education through great stories and key lessons. High school children were guided through a learning process focused on developing a positive attitude toward study skills. Mr. Sujay conducted various guiding talks, followed by practical activities, covering topics such as focus, planning, structuring schedules, reading strategies, taking keynotes, friendship, and communication skills. These guiding sessions were ongoing throughout the year, with regular round-table discussions after every Review papers (Formative and Summative Assessments) to encourage self-reflection on each child's learning progress.

 

Teacher Collaboration and Continuous Improvement

Regular meetings were held for teachers by Mr. Sujay to align with the Montessori method and the core principles of Valiant Academy. Key focus areas during these meetings included:

• Addressing children by their names, rather than by grade, during presentations / activities / any interaction.

• Encouraging adults to observe learning of the children regularly.

• Emphasizing follow-up work and revisiting previous presentations.

• Regular updating of the Blue Book / Activity recording / Concept presented.

• Check the intactness and diversity of the materials used in the environment.

• Opening and reading the "Gratitude Jar" during circle time at regular intervals.

• Collecting and showcasing natural samples for concepts presented. Eg: seeds, rocks, shells, and flowers.

• Maintaining the community culture of the school.

 

Teachers were reminded to acknowledge the diversity of children and help them in learning a concept based on their preferred learning style.

A workshop conducted by Mrs. Veena, Ms. Anshul, and Ms. Deepali helped teachers reflect on the learnings that resonate with the values of Valiant Academy. Positive feedback of a child was encouraged to be shared publicly, while personal concerns were to be addressed individually. Teachers were also appreciated for maintain the consistency in presenting concepts across different environments.

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Parent Engagement and Support

Regular parenting sessions were conducted for parents of children from different age groups to guide them in supporting their children at home. These sessions, led by Mr. Sujay, covered three key aspects:

1. Personal growth for parents.

2. Reflecting on their parenting styles.

3. Understanding the developmental needs of their children.

This holistic approach ensured that parents were empowered to nurture their children's growth both at home and in school.

 

Celebrations and Events at School

School Birthday: Valiants is not just a space; it is a personification of our collective thoughts and passion to make a meaningful difference in the lives of every child we touch. The 26th of June holds special significance for all of us, as this year, we celebrated the 11th birthday of Valiants. What began with just six children in a 1,200 sq. ft. space has grown into a vibrant community of nearly 220 children, now occupying almost 200,000 sq. ft. This incredible journey has been made possible by the alignment with the school’s philosophy, and the unwavering support and cooperation from each one of you over the years. We remain committed to working for the best interests of each child in the years to come.

 

Valiants hosts numerous activities and celebrations throughout the year, where children, adults (teachers) and parents collaborate. On the school’s birthday, it is a time for parents to plan and perform for the school community. Experience is the greatest motivator, and when children witness their parents showcasing various talents, it often inspires them to explore those talents themselves. In many instances, children have been surprised and amazed to discover hidden talents in their parents.

 

Parents were invited to confirm their participation, either individually or in groups, and share a brief description of their performance—whether it was a song, dance, or other act—along with its duration. The selected performances were aligned with the school’s culture, designed to enhance children's life skills and expose them to various art forms they might explore in the future.

 

The entire school community came together to present prayers and songs, with high school children and adults performing two additional songs. High school children also presented cultural programs, which were followed by cultural performances from the parents.

 

International Yoga Day: To celebrate International Yoga Day, Mr. Ramesh, our yoga facilitator, guided the children through learning various yoga asanas. On this special day, both elementary and high school children demonstrated their learning by presenting several asanas, showcasing their progress in yoga.

 

Silent Journey for Lower Elementary Parents

Valiants' Silent Journey and Discovery event was thoughtfully designed to offer parents a meaningful experience by visiting each of our programs, from Pre-primary through Upper Elementary.

Parents were invited to explore the magic and science behind Montessori materials and discover how presentations in our Elementary Programs are conducted. This experience helped set the foundation for developing higher academic and critical thinking skills in preparation for the upper grades. The purpose of the Silent Journey was to provide parents with an opportunity to experience their child’s learning environment from a fresh perspective. It allowed them to observe, reflect, contemplate, and even engage in a working cycle themselves.

This event gave parents a wonderful opportunity to understand how the Montessori curriculum naturally unfolds through the eyes of the child. The organic growth of the whole child inspires a lifelong love of learning and nurtures inner peace.

The Silent Journey for Lower Elementary parents took place on Saturday, 15th July 2023.

 

Independence Day Celebration

India is a democratic nation with a rich tapestry of cultures and heritage that vary from state to state. Our country’s cultural history has flourished over time, shaping the vibrant society we are proud of today.

At Valiants, the 77th Independence Day was a momentous occasion, celebrated with heartfelt gratitude for the immense efforts made in securing India’s freedom. We paid tribute to the unwavering determination of countless freedom fighters who made great sacrifices for the nation and its people. This special day served as a powerful reminder of their heroic efforts, the rich history of our land, and the remarkable achievements of our country as a whole.

To celebrate, the children proudly presented a vibrant cultural program on Tuesday, 15th August 2023, showcasing the essence of India’s diverse and cherished heritage. The Upper Elementary children performed a beautiful Bengali song about the monsoon rains, followed by folk dances from various states, and a semi-classical dance that highlighted India’s mythological stories, reflecting the nation's deep-rooted culture.

Additionally, some children staged a play featuring a time machine that transported them to the lives of freedom fighters, depicting their struggles for India's independence. Grade 7 children performed a skit focusing on the various slogans used during the freedom movement, while Grade 8 children presented a play about how the British ruled over India. The program concluded with a joyous expression of India’s triumph in gaining freedom, symbolized through a dance performance of patriotic songs.

 

Onam

The festival of floral rangoli, Onam, was joyfully celebrated on 29th August. Children from all age groups were asked to bring flowers, and adults formed mixed-age groups, combining children from grades 1 to 10. About 12 spaces were identified on the school campus, and each adult was assigned a group of children. Older children drew the rangoli designs and guided the younger children in filling them with vibrant flowers. Each group created a unique rangoli, and the entire school was adorned with beautiful flower patterns.

Children and adults alike dressed in traditional attire, enhancing the festive atmosphere. As they decorated the space, some children sang songs, and everyone joined in dancing around the pookalam, engaging in the traditional Kerala dance.

 

Hindi Diwas

Hindi Diwas is celebrated to honour and recognize the contribution of the Hindi language to India’s cultural and linguistic diversity. Every year, 16th September is observed as Hindi Diwas. On this occasion, children from various groups presented speeches, songs, fascinating facts about the Hindi language, and riddles, showcasing their appreciation for the national language.

 

Kannada Rajyotsava

In November, we celebrated Kannada Rajyotsava to express our love and gratitude for our state language and the state of Karnataka, known for its unique flavour and cultural diversity. This celebration fosters a sense of pride in the richness of our regional heritage.

 

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

This grand theatre production, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, was directed by Ms. Supriti, with the performers coming from Grades 8 and 9. The entire school community rallied around the theatre group to ensure the show’s success. Under the creative direction of Mr. Prajeesh, a stunning stage setup was crafted, with many children contributing by painting the models. Upper elementary and Grade 7 children set up stalls, all featuring chocolate-themed products made by the children themselves. They created a variety of treats including tarts, brownies, chocolate dips, rolls, and scented candles inspired by the play's characters. The event received enthusiastic responses from parents and children alike.

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Sports Day

At Valiants, Sports Day is designed to instill values, foster unity, and strengthen bonds among children, adults, and parents. The event creates an energetic and active school environment, enhances relationships between parents, adults, and children, provides a platform to discover and nurture athletic talent, and instills values like fair play, respect, and sportsmanship. This year, Sports Day was celebrated on 22nd December. Various athletic events were held for different age groups, including a marathon that involved parents and the whole community, as well as a basketball match. The school’s basketball team received jerseys, and the entire community wore blue T-shirts emblazoned with the Valiants logo.

 

Open House by Upper Elementary

It was a proud moment for the children to showcase their learning and achievements during the Silent Journey as part of Valiants Academy’s Open House. This event allows children to prepare and present their best work, boosting their self-esteem, confidence, communication, and presentation skills. We invited Upper Elementary parents to visit the displays of presentations, charts, models, and the children’s classroom—an engaging space of learning organized by Grades 4, 5, and 6 on March 16, 2024. This unique opportunity allowed parents to see how their children applied their learning to create thoughtful displays. It was a wonderful moment for the school community—teachers, parents, and children—to connect through the ethos of the school's curricular activities. The children proudly presented their work to parents multiple times, maintaining the same level of enthusiasm, intent, and patience throughout.

 

Going out programs

Grade 1 – Overnight stay in school campus

At Valiants, we have organized a night out for our first-year children, packed with engaging activities such as a morning walk, cooking, games, storytelling, and more. Both dinner and breakfast will be prepared and served at school. Since this night out is an integral part of their learning journey, participation is mandatory.

The highlight for many children is carrying their own luggage and spending the night with their friends. This experience marks their first overnight stay at school and serves as a foundation for building stronger bonds with the adults they work with. It also helps prepare them for future "going out" programs by introducing them to a similar environment.

 

Grade 2 - Dhatri Vana

We offered our Grade 2 children a unique opportunity to step back in time and gain insight into the past, specifically how their grandparents or parents lived in village settings, engaging in traditional household activities and games. Dhatri Vana provided a hands-on experience of rural life, allowing the children to appreciate old customs and traditions.

The children participated in tasks such as grinding grains, fetching water from a well, and cooking traditional meals using a wood-fired stove. They also enjoyed playing traditional village games, fostering teamwork, creativity, and physical activity. Through these experiences, the children gained a deeper understanding and appreciation of rural life.

One of the most valuable aspects of this visit was the opportunity for our children to interact with elders from rural backgrounds, ask questions, and listen to stories that offered wisdom and insights into past generations.

This field trip provided a meaningful learning experience, connecting the children with their cultural heritage and offering a day filled with fun, learning, and unforgettable memories. The children concluded the day with an overnight stay at school. Parents were requested to provide consent via mail for their child to participate in this outing.

 

Grade 3 - Kaigal Trip

Grade 3 children embarked on an educational trip to the Kaigal Conservation Centre, located within the Palamner Forest Range near the village of Kaigal, approximately 140 km from Bangalore. The centre is situated on a 200-acre plot on the outskirts of the Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh.

The trip's primary aim was to immerse children in the natural world, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment and a sense of responsibility toward its preservation. During the trip, the children learned about the rich biodiversity of our ecosystem and the crucial role afforestation plays in maintaining it. They witnessed firsthand the positive impact of reforestation efforts.

The children also had the opportunity to collaborate with children from the Sanctuary School, building friendships and learning together. The experience was enriched further as the children tasted meals prepared from locally grown vegetables and rice, connecting them to the importance of sustainable, locally sourced food.

 

Grade 4 - Rangoli Garden

The learning process and the opportunities provided to children at school are always exciting. As part of our "Going Out" program, the Grade 4 children visited a wax museum that showcases a model village in India. The aim was to help the children gain a deeper understanding of the importance of farmers and how society is interconnected.

This visit to the model village offered the children a chance to see firsthand the critical role farmers play in our lives. By exploring the daily lives of farmers and the dynamics of rural communities, the children developed a sense of gratitude and respect for these unsung heroes. The program helped them grasp the concept of interdependence as they observed how different sectors of society rely on one another for smooth functioning.

The children also learned about various occupations in society, acquiring new vocabulary in both English and Kannada. They explored different types of markets, such as those for agricultural produce and animal products, and even saw places for the sale of animals. A "peace corner" created in the panchayat kattae (village council meeting place) connected the children to the fundamental needs of man. They saw occupations like tailors, grocers, blacksmiths, farmers, carpenters, and potters, and when they encountered a goldsmith, bangle seller, and sports activities, they noted that these fulfilled the spiritual needs of humans.

The children's enthusiasm was evident as they asked numerous questions and followed the rules of the "Going Out" program. They reflected on how life has evolved over the years, discussing the contrast between the long journeys people once made for basic necessities and the modern convenience of having everything at their fingertips.

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Grades 4 and 5 - Visit to the Heritage Sites of Karnataka

At Valiants, we are dedicated to providing enriching learning experiences, and our "Going Out" program is one such initiative. Recently, we organized a heritage field trip for our Grade 4 and 5 children to explore history through hands-on experiences.

As part of their ongoing study of civilizations, the children have been learning about various dynasties. To deepen their understanding, we planned a field trip focusing on the Imperial Vijayanagar Empire and the Chalukya Dynasties, two of the longest-ruling powers in medieval Indian history.

The trip was designed to be a time-travel experience, immersing the children in the grandeur of the Vijayanagar and Chalukya eras. Guided by scholars, historians, and storytellers, the children had the unique opportunity to experience the rich culture and heritage of those times. They explored sites where our ancestors lived, walked where they once walked and gained a deeper appreciation for our shared legacy.

During this expedition, the children marveled at the beauty of the sculptures and learned about the immense effort required to construct the massive structures of that period. These experiences aimed to foster admiration for the ingenuity, leadership, and capacity of our ancestors.

 

Grades 5 and 6 - Visit to the Wood Museum

Mrs. Triveni, the CTO of the Institute, welcomed our Grade 5 and 6 children to the Wood Museum, where she explained the purpose behind establishing the museum and shared insights into their specialized areas of research. A documentary about the Wood Museum followed her talk, providing further context.

During the visit, both children and adults took an oath to conserve forests, emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship.

The Institute has pioneered the development of various eco-friendly alternatives to wood, which are equally durable and suitable for use in interiors and furniture. The children learned about how the Institute assists law enforcement by analysing wood samples, often obtained from confiscated shipments. If the wood is found to be illegally sourced, the Institute helps build cases by providing evidence to prosecute the offenders.

After the presentation, the children were taken on a tour of the garden, where they were introduced to various trees, their uses, and the methods of cultivation, with a special focus on sandalwood trees.

 

Grades 6 and 7 - Visit to the Agasthya Foundation

Our Grade 6 and 7 children had the exciting opportunity to visit the Agasthya Foundation at Kuppam, an institution that has been doing groundbreaking work in the field of science education. The Foundation provides a stimulating environment where children can explore scientific concepts through hands-on learning and experiments, helping them understand the science behind phenomena they encounter in their daily lives.

The visit to the Agasthya Foundation was a valuable extension of our children' learning, giving them the chance to observe science in action. This experience perfectly aligned with our philosophy of providing a well-rounded education that goes beyond the classroom.

Our children participated in interactive exhibits and conducted experiments that enhanced their understanding of various scientific principles, spanning physics, chemistry, biology, and environmental science. This immersive experience fostered curiosity and deepened their appreciation for the role of science in the natural world.

 

Grade 8 - Educational Tour to the Rann of Kutch and Bhuj

An educational tour was organized for our Grade 8 children to explore the Rann of Kutch, Bhuj, and the Indus Valley Civilization. This trip aimed to provide a deeper understanding of India's heritage, culture, and geography, enriching the children' learning experience.

During this tour, the children had hands-on experiences with the rich cultural heritage of Bhuj and Kutch. They worked alongside local artisans and learned about traditional crafts such as block printing, Charkha spinning, Rogan art, tie and dye, and mural artwork, gaining an appreciation for the intricate craftsmanship passed down through generations.

The trip also provided a firsthand understanding of the geographical significance of the Rann of Kutch and the historical importance of the Indus Valley Civilization, with a special visit to the Dholavira archaeological site.

Our educational trips and "going out" programs are designed to foster independence and interdependence among children. These experiences help strengthen the bonds between children and adults, offering valuable opportunities for learning, collaboration, and personal growth.

 

Grade 10 - Yercaud Trip

The two-day trip to Yercaud provided a refreshing break for our Grade 10 children amidst their intense academic schedule. Significantly, this was their last official outing as a group before their upcoming board exams.

During the train journey, the children not only strengthened their bonds with each other but also interacted with fellow passengers. Some took the opportunity to engage in thoughtful discussions about the student exchange program, demonstrating a commendable curiosity about global perspectives. Additionally, acts of kindness, such as assisting elderly passengers, showcased the empathy and values instilled in them.

Several children also conducted social experiments during the trip, providing fascinating insights into human behaviour. This initiative reflected their curiosity and analytical thinking, extending beyond the academic realm.

The trip highlighted the deep connections, love, and care shared among the children. The activities and shared experiences fostered a closer understanding of one another.

During a reflective session led by Sujay, the children were encouraged to look back on their years at Valiants and express their thoughts and feelings through writing. This introspective activity added a significant emotional dimension to the trip.

It was heartwarming to witness the children openly engage in comfortable conversations with Sujay, signifying the strong bond of trust they had built over the years. Many children penned letters expressing their personal journeys at Valiants, emphasizing their growth and the role the school has played in shaping their personalities.

The misty weather, serene surroundings, and delicious food created a tranquil atmosphere that allowed the children to unwind and recharge.

In essence, the Yercaud trip became a cherished chapter in the children’s journey at Valiants, serving as a platform to strengthen friendships, create lasting memories, and find respite from academic pressure. Beyond the scenic beauty and pleasant climate, the outing marked a poignant and memorable conclusion to their school years.

 

Grade 9 - Trek to Kedarkantha, Uttarakhand

The Himalayas, home to the world’s tallest peaks, including Everest and K2, are known as the "Abode of Snow." The Indian Himalayas offer a breathtaking blend of heart-stopping beauty, thrilling adventure, rich culture, and deep spiritual experiences. For many mountaineers, trekking the Himalayas is not only a physical challenge but also an emotional and spiritual journey.

At Valiants, we firmly believe in the importance of exploration and adventure for children, and this trek to Kedarkantha in Uttarakhand was designed to teach valuable life lessons such as resilience, confidence, leadership, and environmental conservation. These are profound values that often take years to develop, yet they can be instilled over a few days on a challenging trek. Such experiences encourage children to become independent and face life's challenges with positivity.

Our Grade 9 children were carefully prepared for the trek, focusing on physical fitness, mental agility, and lung capacity to ensure the adventure was both enjoyable and safe. We had detailed discussions with the children about mountain preparedness, ensuring they were well-equipped for the physical and mental challenges ahead.

The lessons they learned from the mountains will remain with them as lifelong guiding principles, and the experience of trekking in such a majestic landscape will be a cherished memory.

 

Conclusion

The academic year concluded with a series of Parents' and Teachers' interactive sessions across all grades. These sessions provided an opportunity to reflect on the children’s progress, share observations, and discuss their development throughout the year. These discussions not only deepened the understanding between parents and teachers but also offered valuable insights into each child’s growth, both academically and personally.

The year’s end serves as a reminder that education at Valiants goes beyond academics—it encompasses life lessons, personal development, and the building of strong bonds within the community. Through these trips and activities, our children have gained more than just knowledge; they’ve built character, resilience, and a sense of interdependence that will guide them throughout their lives.