Sharanya, a BSS alumni, was with the school from grades 3 - 7. In this article, she reminisces anecdotes from her 5 years at BSS. Right from her first Open Day at school to the time she moved out. Sharanya went on to pursue psychology taking forward her deep interest in human behaviour.
I studied at BSS for five years, from grades 3-7. I remember how relaxed I was on the first Open Day. I remember taking in my surroundings as an eight-year-old and realizing this could be home. As a child coming from a mainstream school, it eluded me that there existed a school that didn't fit the mould of that educational system. I remember eating watermelon slices, sitting on rocks, and looking at the horizon. I remember swinging with my legs in the air, running on the open ground, and meeting many fascinating people. I had decided, Bangalore Steiner School was going to be home.
Rudolf Steiner's profound statement, "Receive the children in reverence, educate them in love, and send them forth in freedom" encapsulates the core principles that guided my experience at Bangalore Steiner School (BSS).
I was made aware here of my innate potential and worth. I felt respected as an individual. My teachers acknowledged my strengths and helped me work on my weaknesses and challenges. My teachers demonstrated genuine care and concern towards my classmates and me, playing the role of our parents at school, and fostering a sense of belonging and community. I was allowed to grow as an individual at my own pace and this reverence for childhood allowed me to develop a strong sense of confidence. I was also encouraged to explore my interests, express myself creatively, and develop a sense of agency.
One of the most significant aspects of my time at BSS was the emphasis on fostering strong relationships. The school's intimate environment allowed me to form deep bonds with my classmates, who became family. We shared countless adventures, from exploring the school grounds, building tents, gardening, and embarking on exciting field trips. These experiences helped me develop a sense of belonging and camaraderie that I still cherish today.
The school also played a crucial role in helping me discover my strengths and potential. Through various activities like the Knighthood Project and team-building tasks like being a part of a play or learning Taichi, I learned about my leadership qualities, my ability to think critically, and my keen sense of perception. The school's emphasis on individual expression and creativity encouraged me to explore different areas of interest and to develop a unique voice.
One of the most valuable lessons I learned at BSS was the importance of self-reflection and personal growth. The school's supportive and nurturing environment provided a safe space for me to explore my thoughts and feelings, and to learn from my mistakes. As a child, I used to get into trouble from time to time. Our teachers used the concept of consequences to help us understand exactly where we went wrong and what we could take away from the entire experience. This helped me develop a greater understanding of myself.
The school’s unique approach to education, which emphasizes on holistic development and a deep connection with nature, has had a lasting impact on my social attitudes and relationships with others. The school's emphasis on empathy, compassion, and respect for all beings has helped me to develop a more compassionate and understanding worldview. I am grateful for the opportunities that my school provided me to learn about myself and the world around me.
My experiences at this school have undoubtedly influenced my decision to pursue psychology. The interactions I had with my classmates, teachers, and the wider community helped me to develop a deep interest in human behavior and a desire to help others.
BSS was more than just a place of learning for me; it was a second home, where I discovered myself, forged lifelong friendships, and developed a unique perspective on the world.
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