Welmun and Kamera Obscura
From 8th to 10th August, we embarked on a journey to Welham Boys’ School, Dehradun, to participate in Kamera Obscura 7.0, a prestigious photography competition and Model United Nations. The picturesque campus, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, set the stage for an exciting blend of photography and debate. The three-day event was more than a competition; it was a celebration of creativity and expression. Ideas flowed, debates ignited, and every camera click captured a unique story. The atmosphere buzzed with discussions, the rustling of camera bags, and the quiet testing of equipment, creating a dynamic and inspiring environment. The Model United Nations event challenged us to think on a global scale. Representing countries, we debated real-world issues with intensity and passion. It wasn’t just about winning; it was about learning to listen, articulate our thoughts, and build bridges across ideas. The camera workshops and interactive sessions with Mr. VICKY ROY provided us with invaluable insights. The combination of both events made this visit truly memorable. Where one event sharpened our creative instincts, the other tested our intellectual and communicative prowess. As we look back on those three days at Welham Boys’ School, it gave us the perfect stage to challenge ourselves, learn from others, and grow. As we headed back, cameras in hand and debate notes tucked away, one thing was certain: these experiences would stay with us, not as mere memories, but as milestones in our journey of growth and discovery.
~ Gurmannat Kaur (XII MIK)
Visit to the District Session Court
“An advocate should know everything about something and something about everything,” said senior Advocate Mr. Angrej Singh Sandhu as he began our guided tour of the Patiala District Court on 2nd August. This visit, organised for the Legal Studies students, provided a profound glimpse into the legal world. We started with an engaging session led by Ms. Manni Arora (JMIC), Secretary, District Legal Service Authority. She shared her inspiring journey and explained the ADR Centre’s role in mediation and free legal aid under Section 12. We also met Ms. Rupinderjit Chahal, the Sessions Judge and Ms. Deepika Singh, Additional Principal Judge of the Family Court, who offered valuable insights into judicial processes. Observing the Ahlmads, where case records are meticulously maintained, highlighted the court’s dedication to thorough documentation. Our tour also included visits to the bar room and the court library, underscoring the need for continuous learning. This visit was an an eye opener for Legal Studies students and it surely motivated us to pursue our academic and professional goals with renewed passion.
~ Arshgeet (XI SKM)
AFS Exchange Programme – Madurai
Exchange programs are a vital aspect of modern education, designed to equip us for future challenges. This year, we had an opportunity to participate in a domestic exchange program in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, which offered us a deep insight into its vibrant culture. Our experience was enriched by field trips to Rameshwaram, Dhanushkodi, the Keeladi archaeological site, and more. Staying with host families allowed us to immerse ourselves in their way of life and share our own cultural values.
Our time at Shri Aurobindo Mira Universal School also provided a fascinating look at different teaching and sports methods. The special Tamil language sessions were the perfect finishing touch. Overall, this exchange program was a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience that brought together students from three states, helping us gain valuable insights and preparing us for community engagement.
~ Anshvir Singh Tiwana (XII GSK)
Khushwant Singh Literary Fest
The students of The British Co-ed High School went on an enlightening journey as they attended the Khushwant Singh Literary Festival on 15th October 2023 at Kasauli, where they immersed themselves in a world of words, ideas, and imagination. The festival, held in honour of the legendary author Khushwant Singh, was a literary extravaganza that left an indelible mark on the young minds.
This event brings together renowned authors, poets, and intellectuals who shared their insights and experiences. Students had the privilege of attending enlightening panel discussions and talking to well known people. The literary fest provided a platform for students to interact with literary giants, ask questions, and gain a deeper understanding of the power of words.
This visit not only enriched their knowledge but also kindled a love for literature, encouraging them to explore the world of storytelling and expression. The Khushwant Singh Literary Festival is a constant reminder that literature is not confined to textbooks but is a vibrant reflection of society, reflecting its beauty, complexities, and contradictions. It was an experience that left us eagerly anticipating more such opportunities for literary exploration.
~ Gurmannat Kaur (XI GSK)
Debate Programme in the United Kingdom
I Kudratjot Kaur from class 10th HJK and Niamat Kaur from 10th HJK attended a 10-day debate programme offered by TAP in the UK. We had a well-rounded mix of educational, cultural, and competitive experiences. Starting with the debate program at Westcliff High School, where Niamat and I paired up and emerged victorious. It was a great feeling to collaborate with students from different schools from all over the world as well as schools from India like Pathways and Mahatma school.
The sightseeing day, exploring London’s landmarks like the London Eye, was breathtaking. Moving on to the boarding school experience at Hamberg High School, it was a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the daily life of students there. Performing Giddha and Bhangra was a fantastic way to share our cultural heritage and connect with others.
Visiting the prestigious debating societies at Oxford Union and Cambridge Union was like a dream for any debater! Winning debates at both places is a testament to our skills and dedication. And it’s wonderful that we got to showcase our cultural performances there as well.
Wrapping up the programme by participating in a debate hosted in a British school and winning with Niamat was the perfect culmination of our debating journey. Ending the trip with some shopping on Oxford Street was a great way to unwind after such an intense and rewarding experience.
Overall, it was a whirlwind of learning, cultural exchange, and success. Memories like these must be cherished for a lifetime!
~ Kudratjot Kaur (X HJK)
Tree Plantation
In an era where environmental concerns are at the forefront, tree plantation drives emerge as a beacon of hope for a greener and more sustainable future. On 16 August, 2023, the students of the British Co-Ed High School actively participated in a tree plantation drive. The NSS volunteers and the NCC cadets were provided with plant saplings to be planted in the village, Naina Kurd. Tree plantation drives symbolize a collective effort to safeguard our planet’s future. By recognizing the importance of trees beyond their aesthetic value, we pave the way for a sustainable and resilient world. As trees stand tall, so can we in our commitment to preserving Earth’s beauty and vitality. It is rightly said “He who plants a tree plants a hope.”
~ Gurmannat Kaur (XI GSK)
Community Service – Joy of Learning
“It’s great not only talking about community service but also doing it!” – Adam Gardener
Recently, during the month of June, the students of grades XI and XII worked as a team to conduct a programme for the Community School girls studying in the afternoon at our school. The programme consisted of improving English speaking skills of the girls alongside teaching them of its importance on a larger scale.
This aim was fulfilled by reading and conversing with them in the English language which surely took their public speaking confidence a lot higher. After the Community School girls’ initial hesitation, they soon took to the new work.
This programme was not only a growth curve for these girls but also for us as students, seeing them enjoy every little part of this programme made us feel even more joyful and motivated to keep the process going. The time spent during this programme was an experience that cannot be easily forgotten!
~ Tisha Malhotra (XI GSK)
Spic Macay North Convention Programme
Recently I attended the Spic Macay North Convention programme at DPS Ludhiana. This was a novel experience for me. I went there with my school teachers and friends representing, The British Co-Ed High School. I gladly attended the Tabla Workshop of Mr. Abhishek Mishra. Our whole group enjoyed it very much. There were two duet performancers; Sitar that was played by Pt. Gaurav Mazumdar followed by tabla. Another duet was by Hindustani vocalist Pt. Harish Tiwari. We also attended the Bharatnatyam show by Vid. Ragini Chandershekar. There was an excellent arrangement of food and stay. In the morning there was a yoga programme at 5 o’clock. We learnt many new yoga postures and we learnt pranayam from Pt Harish Tiwari. On the second day of the Tabla workshop, we learnt many taals like teen taal etc. As a first timer, I performed reasonably well at Tabla. There were many other workshops like classical vocal, kathak, calligraphy etc. At the end, we listened to Rajasthani folk music. The concert was being followed by Dholak, Harmonium, and many musical instruments performance. I am truly indebted to school for this musical extravaganza.
~ Ishaarth Chhabra (VIII SHK)
NCC – Awareness Drive on Drug Abuse
To raise awareness about the ill-effects of drug abuse an interactive workshop was organised for NCC Cadets and it was presided over by Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Dr. Virendra Kumar and Union Defense Minister Shri. Rajnath Singh. Minister of state for Social justice and empowerment Shri Ramdas Athawale and secretary Smt. Anjali Bhanwra were also present on the event. The NCC team of our school also actively took part in this event. The cadets were mentored to stay away from drug abuse. The cadets took a pledge at the end for a drug free India. The pledge instilled a determination in the cadets towards a drug free India. I would like to appreciate the effort made by our NCC mentors and I as a conscious and informed NCC Cadet on behalf of our team would like to assert “We have big plans for our futures so we choose to be drug free”
~Navya Kaushal (VIII DB)
S. Khushwant Singh Literary Festival, Kasauli
On 14th October I and my fellow students were taken to the Sardar Khushwant Singh Literary Fest at Kasauli. The event was graced with the presence of so many big celebrities sharing their life experiences with students and listeners. The venue could not have been more perfect than the beautiful and serene Kasauli. The event started with a classical ‘shabad’ which was so calming that we all got lost in the voice of the artist. Followed by a book reading by the eminent author, Amitav Ghosh. Mr. Ghosh got us through the style and themes of his upcoming book and even piqued our interest by reading us some pages from it. The writer was quite warm and patient enough to sign students’ books and get pictures clicked with them. Many other eminent personalities such as Mrs. Mallika Sarabhai, daughter of Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, the man behind ISRO, Mr. Cyrus Broacha, the famous MTV anchor and comedian were present as well. After the event, we approached Mr. Cyrus and asked for an autograph and a picture to which he kindly agreed. He was such a jolly and lively personality. I remember him asking us if any of us wanted a career in comedy, to which I replied, “Not a career Sir, but I definitely want to try it once in college”. Altogether it was a wonderful experience and I feel lucky to have experienced it all.
~Soham Kumar