Every child has different journey, success can’t be one-size-fits-all

Principal of Jesus Sacred Heart School, Kirti Sharma, talks to Principal Correspondent Shivani Bhakoo about her experience in education, how things have changed and what must be done to make it better.

n Where have you served and for how long?

I have more than 20 years of experience in the field of education and have been the Principal at Jesus’ Sacred Heart School for the past 15 years.

Your thoughts on the tough competition among students these days?

The growing competition among students is a real concern, and it can indeed become stressful, especially for those who consider themselves ordinary or are still discovering their strengths. As someone with over 20 years of experience in the field, I have witnessed a significant shift in the academic landscape. Today, students are performing at exceptionally high levels, often excelling in multiple areas from academics to extra-curricular to competitive exams. While this drive for excellence is admirable, it’s important to acknowledge that not all students thrive under such pressure. Every child is unique, some may be high achievers in academics, while others may excel in creativity, leadership, sports or interpersonal skills. The danger arises when we begin to measure all students by the same yardstick and push them into a one-size-fits-all model of success. Stress, anxiety and burnout are increasingly common among students today, and this is something we must take seriously.

What is the role of parents and teachers in shaping students’ future?

The role of both parents and teachers is pivotal in shaping a child’s future. Together, they form the foundation of a student’s learning environment, one at home, the other at school. I’ve seen that when parents and teachers work in partnership, students thrive not only academically but also emotionally and socially. Teachers are not just subject experts; they are mentors, guides and role models. They help students discover their potential, encourage curiosity and develop values like discipline, responsibility and empathy. A good teacher goes beyond text books, they identify individual student needs and guide them accordingly. Parents, on the other hand, provide the emotional and moral support children need. A child who feels secure and supported at home is more likely to be confident and motivated in school. Parents must show interest in their child’s learning, attend school meetings, communicate openly with teachers and avoid putting undue pressure. When both parents and teachers align their efforts respecting the child’s individuality, setting realistic expectations, and maintaining consistent communication the child gets a balanced environment to grow and succeed.

What changes have you seen in education over the years? Is it expensive now?

Education definitely has changed over the years, especially with the focus on providing modern facilities, digital learning and holistic development opportunities. Parents often raise concerns over fees, uniforms and books because these costs add up, especially when they have more than one child or are from middle-income families. As a school, we understand this concern and always try to ensure transparency in fee structures. However, quality education comes with necessary investments skilled staff, infrastructure, extracurricular activities, safety measures and technology integration.

How can we shape the future of students better?

We can shape students’ future better by focusing not only on academic excellence but also on holistic development. This includes emotional intelligence, critical thinking, creativity, communication skills and moral values. Education should prepare children for life, not just for exams. We need to encourage practical learning over rote memorisation. Integrate life skills into the curriculum. Promote sports, arts and social service to develop well-rounded personalities. Offer career guidance and mentorship early on. Involve parents as active partners in a child’s growth. The future demands adaptable, ethical and emotionally strong individuals. Our education systems must evolve accordingly.

What are some of the difficult situations you face with students and parents?Some common challenges include parental pressure on students to perform beyond their capability. Behavioural or emotional issues among students, sometimes linked to family problems or peer pressure. Unrealistic academic expectations from parents that may not align with the child’s interests or strengths. In such situations, it’s essential to approach the problem with empathy and open communication. Every child has a different journey, and aligning the school’s and parents’ expectations is crucial.