Update from the Principal’s Desk : May 2024

  • 6 May 2024

Petrichor, the distinctive smell of the earth after the first rainfall. This is the only metaphor that I could think of while I reflect on the culmination of this academic year. The year had everything! Drama, emotion, culture, message, originality, brilliant performances! The soul has been touched and my heart is so full!  

The year was filled with a myriad of events that have truly showcased the exceptional talent and dedication of our Oakridge community. From the trailblazing SDG Summit to the captivating TEDx and TEDO events, from the thought-provoking Aequitas to the vibrant Culture Mela, and from the inspiring Ink and Insight sessions to the engaging PYP exhibition, our students have left an indelible mark on all who have witnessed their brilliance. The exciting excursions, SEAMEI conference, and musical extravaganza have further enriched our collective experience, filling our cup to the brim and beyond. As we bid farewell to this remarkable chapter, let us embrace the beauty of new beginnings, knowing that the seeds of excellence and innovation sown this year will continue to blossom and flourish in the days to come.  

I am thrilled to announce that following a rigorous selection process, Sushaeni Reddy Bommidi from the India region have secured a spot at the prestigious MIT-Nord Anglia STEAM experience in Boston from Oct 27th to Nov 3rd, 2024. The calibre of entries was exceptionally high, making the decision challenging. While Ritayush Dey remains on the waiting list, Siri Reddy Polasene and Tarunisree Baddiredddi showcased outstanding submissions, narrowly missing out on a place. Their exceptional efforts are truly commendable. 

In a testament to their exceptional abilities and unwavering commitment, a cohort of students from Oakridge Bachupally has demonstrated remarkable academic prowess, securing early acceptance offers from esteemed universities, both Indian and international. Among the prestigious institutions extending offers to Oakridge students are renowned names such as: University of Massachusetts, Amherst, University of Minnesota – Twin Cities, Virginia Commonwealth University, Drexel University, Temple University, OP Jindal University in India. 

From scribbling to script writing, Oakridge Readiness Program was filled with an exciting literacy journey for the early years. Grade 1 and 2 enjoyed Brunch with the Principal, fostering camaraderie and warmth. Grade 9 engaged in elocution, refining communication skills. At Oakridge Bachupally, our commitment to holistic education, nurturing academic growth, and interpersonal connections shines through. 

The international journeys to Malaysia and Bhutan, offered an extraordinary fusion of delight and enlightenment. These experiences weave lasting memories and forge connections that transcends borders and cultures, leaving an indelible mark on our personal growth and leaves a transformative impact on our learning journey. 

Oakridge International School, Bachupally is authorized by the AP Program to administer 2024 AP Exams. The 2024 AP Exams will be administered at our centre as paper-and-pencil exams only over two weeks in May: May 6–10 and May 13–17.  

In addition to the excitement of a new beginning, we are thrilled about the ongoing Summer Camp that provides students with a fun and enriching experience. This year Summer Camp offered a range of activities and opportunities for students to explore new interests, develop skills, and forge lasting friendships.  

To cultivate students’ innovative prowess, we’re launching an exciting new initiative: the Maker’s Space. This dynamic platform will empower students to create, collaborate, and exchange technological ideas. As we embrace cutting-edge advancements and leverage Edu Perfect, technology will play an even more integral role in various educational activities. In the coming days. This move aims to enhance their participation in Global Campus activities and leverage AI-assisted resources. 

What is changing for 24-25? | Global Campus Update- Meet an Olympian in our Expert Talk, read the winning illustrated stories from our Writing Competition, and build a solar-powered machine in STEAM Club this month on Global Campus! For ease of access, please log in to Global Campus and stay in the loop with the GC calendar! Discover thrilling upcoming events that await you.  

At Oakridge, we are dedicated to fostering sporting talent through our SEP (Sporting Skill Enhancement Program), which offers intensive sports training to nurture the skills of our students. Our Sports Day is a celebration of each child’s success, while our partnerships with organizations like SGF, ISSO, HCA, Fit India, and others ensure that our students have access to the best opportunities in sports. Additionally, our upcoming expedition to Switzerland offers a challenging and exciting experiential learning experience for Nord Anglia School students. The OAK 5K Run is a chance for our community to come together and run for a cause, marking a celebration of OIS, Bachupally.  

We are excited to announce several new initiatives aimed at enhancing the overall experience for our students at the school. Firstly, we have introduced a new bus cleaning machine for external cleaning, ensuring proper hygiene and maintenance of our transportation facilities. We are also working on greatly improving the health and hygiene of our restrooms through renovation efforts. Furthermore, we are thrilled to announce the upcoming introduction of an Early years and Primary Outdoor activity zone, which includes a petite modification of the jungle gym area, providing students with more fun and engaging outdoor space. We are committed to providing a safe, innovative, and enriching environment for our students, and we look forward to sharing these exciting developments with you.  

As the academic year concluded, Oakridge Bachupally honoured its devoted staff with a grand gathering. The event was a showcase of appreciation, with accolades bestowed upon those with long-standing dedication, outstanding performance, and roles as ambassadors for the NAE brand, well-being, and parents. The celebrations extended to a staff retreat at Prism, where relationships were deepened through a day of lively activities, fun and delectable cuisine. It was a momentous occasion, signifying the conclusion of a fruitful year and the dawn of fresh connections and exciting journeys to come.  

As we bid farewell to our departing teachers, we extend our heartfelt wishes for success and fulfilment in their future endeavours as they set forth on new and exciting journeys. At the same time, we warmly welcome our incoming teachers, who bring with them a wealth of knowledge, fresh perspectives, and innovative ideas that are sure to enrich our educational community and inspire growth and excellence. 

To uphold an exceptional standard of education, our institution prioritizes investment in rigorous teacher training and provides ongoing professional development opportunities for its esteemed staff. Currently, our educators such as Ms. Manavi, is engaged in participating in the Middle Year Leadership Programme in Dubai, while Shweta is enhancing her skills through the MIT Professional Development program, and Ms. Fiona will be representing the school at the UNICEF Summit. Continuing with these endeavours, we shall be conducting an induction programme that will play a crucial role in acclimating teachers to their new roles and responsibilities. 

We eagerly await the arrival of Early Years and Primary parents for Orientation days on Monday, June 3rd and Tuesday, June 4th, followed by the Senior school parents on Wednesday, June 5th and Thursday, June 6th. The new students will be reporting on Friday, June 7th and the reopening of our school for all Oakridgers on Monday, June 10th. Your presence and enthusiastic participation in all school activities will be deeply appreciated. 

This year’s finale signals the end of one story and the dawn of a new adventure brimming with boundless opportunities. We look forward to creating unforgettable memories and fostering a sense of community. While we close the book on this chapter, let us remember that the end is not the end; it is simply the beginning of a new story waiting to be written. “Behind me is infinite power, before me is endless possibility, around me is boundless opportunity.” — Mac Anderson