Dear Parents,
February has been a month of powerful voices and purposeful learning at Oakridge International School, Visakhapatnam. From celebrating the beauty of our mother tongues to staging a thought-provoking IBDP theatre production, our learners demonstrated confidence, creativity, and compassion in equal measure.
This month, we saw our students step beyond classrooms through enriching field visits, connect with global universities, and engage in meaningful conversations on health and awareness. The inauguration of our reimagined amphitheatre marked not just the unveiling of a physical space, but the strengthening of a platform where ideas, talent, and courage find expression.
As we look ahead, we remain committed to nurturing confident learners who honour their roots while shaping the future with courage and integrity.
Warm regards,
Shaila Bhamidipati
Principal
Oakridge International School, Visakhapatnam
IBDP Theatre Production
The IB Diploma Programme Class of 2026 presented Truth 4told – A Holmes Mystery, a production that reflected a year of resilience, collaboration, and artistic excellence.
Through themes of abuse of power, corruption, and media manipulation, our learners inspired critical reflection while raising funds for a charitable cause. The production stood as a testament to meaningful education rooted in inquiry, creativity, grit, and purpose in action.
International Mother Language Day
We celebrated the beauty of our mother tongues, the languages that shaped our first words and our deepest emotions. Proclaimed by UNESCO to honour linguistic diversity and the historic language movement of 1952 in Dhaka, this day reminded us that language is inherited, nurtured, and passed down with love.
Our children shared greetings in their mother tongues, sang heartfelt songs, and recited poems filled with pride and belonging. Each voice reflected confidence and cultural identity.
Through such celebrations, we continue to nurture self-expression, instil respect for all languages, and help our learners value their roots from an early age. Because every language is special, and every child’s voice matters.
Global University Guidance
Our Grade 11 students attended an inspiring session on crafting a powerful Statement of Purpose, led by representatives from Imperial College London and the University of Nottingham.
Students gained clarity on how to present their academic passions, articulate future aspirations, and write authentic and compelling applications. The session strengthened their understanding of global university expectations and boosted their confidence as they prepare for international pathways.
Learning Beyond Classrooms
Experiential learning continued to shape our students’ journeys this month.
Our Cambridge Grade 8 learners visited Anil Neerukonda Hospital, where they explored medical facilities and gained insights into foetal care incubators, hospital safety protocols, and essential healthcare equipment. The visit enriched their understanding of medical science and neonatal care.
Our Early Years learners stepped into nature at Central Park, observing plants, exploring textures, asking curious questions, and connecting with the environment through play and inquiry. They also experienced the joy of discovering naturally grown vegetables, engaging their senses and building awareness of healthy living.
Learning extended outdoors as students planted trees, observed plant growth, created crafts using natural materials, and even prepared healthy salads. At Oakridge, we believe some of the most meaningful lessons are learned close to the earth.
Reimagined Amphitheatre
This month, we unveiled our reimagined amphitheatre, crowned with a striking tensile roof. More than a structure, the amphitheatre represents a space where confidence is nurtured, expression is celebrated, and learning extends beyond four walls. It is a stage for courage, a platform for ideas, and a place where every learner belongs.
World Cancer Day
On World Cancer Day, our students participated in a meaningful assembly focused on cancer awareness and compassion. Through ribbon-making, posters, presentations, and purposeful colours, they explored how small actions can create meaningful impact. By initiating such conversations early, we help break fear and stigma while nurturing empathy and humanity in our learners.
Home-School Connect
Our Home-School Connect session for EY 1 offered parents a glimpse into their child’s day at school. From circle time and music and movement to hands-on learning through play, parents experienced the rhythm of Early Years learning first-hand.
Spell Bee Competition
Our Spell Bee Competition was an exciting and enriching event held for students from EY2 to Grade 5. The young participants showcased impressive spelling skills, confidence, and enthusiasm as they competed round after round. The event aimed to strengthen vocabulary, enhance concentration, and encourage a love for language among students.
Library and Digital Learning
Our learners continued to build strong academic habits through focused library reading sessions and structured computer lab time. These experiences reinforce research skills, digital literacy, and independent learning, equipping students for a rapidly evolving world.
Boarding Experiences That Last a Lifetime
Our boarders enjoyed an exciting outing to the Zoological Park, where they observed animals, spotted birds, cycled along scenic pathways, and shared a delicious lunch.
Life at Oakridge boarding extends far beyond accommodation. It is about friendships, exploration, shared experiences, and lifelong memories.
Enriching Club Experiences
Our Reading Club introduced students to writing a story and Holocaust literature through The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas by John Boyne, alongside viewing the trailer of its film adaptation.
In Chess Club, learners explored strategies to achieve checkmate in the minimum number of moves. The session strengthened critical thinking, planning, and logical reasoning.
The Mandala Art Club focused on symmetry, balance, and repetition as students created intricate leaf mandalas using foundational patterns.
Cooking Club brought hands-on joy as students prepared vegetable sandwiches. From cleaning and chopping vegetables to seasoning and assembling, learners developed practical life skills while enjoying collaborative learning.
Students also participated in a video editing workshop using Adobe Premiere Pro and VN Video Editor. Under guided instruction, they learned cutting, trimming, transitions, background music integration, and basic effects, gaining practical exposure to both professional and beginner-friendly editing platforms.
Student Counselling Sessions
This month, our student counsellor led awareness sessions on respectful communication, the impact of derogatory or gender‑teasing language, personal boundaries, and the values of responsibility, respect, and belonging, all aimed at strengthening positive peer interactions and promoting an inclusive school environment. In observance of Eating Disorders Awareness Week, the Well‑Being Club, guided by the counsellor and psychology teacher, also conducted a survey across middle and high school to understand students’ eating habits and their influence on well-being. The insights underscore the importance of approaching conversations around food, body image, and wellness with empathy, sensitivity, and mindful support.