Lovedale Tidings - February 2024
A Journey Through the Strategic World of Chess
The Lawrence School, Lovedale organized a workshop for the budding chess players of the school on 28th February, 2024 from 2:30pm to 4:30pm in the Senior School Large Hall. Two eminent chess coaches from the Nilgiri District Chess Association, Mr. Junaise K K Joint Secretary, First Senior National Arbiter in Nilgiri District and Mr. Rajiv A, the third Fide-rated player in the state, guided the children about various moves and tricks. In addition to it, they had a detailed discussion regarding the rules and regulations of chess. Nearly 28 students participated in this workshop. It was an enriching interaction between students and coaches which helped them to understand the competition rules.
Taekwondo Belt Promotion Test
The Taekwondo promotion test was successfully conducted on Sunday, 25th February 2024, for students in classes 5th to 8th. Under the vigilant supervision of Master G. Balakrishnan, 7th DAN, the event saw enthusiastic participation and marked achievements.
A total of 39 students from classes 5 to 8 participated in the test, demonstrating their skills and dedication. All thirty-nine participants qualified for the YELLOW STRIPE level. Twenty-seven students have been promoted from YELLOW STRIPE to YELLOW BELT, showcasing their dedication and progress in Taekwondo. Master G. Balakrishnan provided valuable guidance during the test. He took the opportunity to impart fundamental techniques and kicking strategies to the students, inspiring them to aim for higher grades and excellence in their practice.
Getting a yellow stripe is the 9th level in Taekwondo and an important milestone for our students, reflecting their continuous effort and perseverance in their Taekwondo journey. Moving forward, regular grading level exams will be conducted every three months within the school premises to facilitate continuous improvement and growth among students.
Puberty Education for girls
The School Counsellor conducted a session on Puberty Education for the girls of class VII in February 2024. Following is a reflection submitted by one of the students.
Forty-nine girls from class VII attended the session on Puberty held in the Large Hall of the Prep School. Each girl goes through puberty at a certain age. We were educated on the signs indicating the onset of puberty, the bodily changes that occur, what changes take place in our bodies, and how to cope with adolescent issues. This was conveyed through informative presentations.
Teens are known for their moody and self-conscious behaviour. Many hormones are released in our bodies, and this can cause mood swings and food cravings. When a girl is stressed, it can impact the body, causing excessive menstruation. The stress hormone - cortisol - can affect our periods. In the olden times, girls were confined to one room and not permitted to go outside; they were also not allowed to mingle with others when they had periods. However, now social norms have evolved.
We received instruction on our reproductive system and how to take care of ourselves. Many questions posed to the Counsellor ranging from foetal development to abortion and STDs. We became aware that gender reveal is banned in India because many people abort girl children. The counsellor also taught us how to dispose of a sanitary pad safely.
Overall, the session was highly informative and helpful. We are thankful to the counsellor for her guidance.
Shreeda D
Aravalli
A Report on the Farewell Programme
The farewell programme for Class VIII girls and Class V boys was a heartfelt and vibrant event held on Sunday, 25th February in the Prep School Large hall at 6 pm. The event brought together the Headmaster, Deputy Headmaster, the Dean of Activities, Prep School staff and students to bid adieu to the departing senior girls and junior boys.
The programme was organized house-wise, adding a personal touch to the farewell. Class V, VI, and VII girls from each house showcased their talents with a song, a lively dance, and heartfelt speeches, reminiscing about their shared moments in the dormitories with the seniors. The emotional highlight of the evening came from a Class 5 boy and a Class 8 girl, who shared their unique journeys in the Prep School. Their speeches resonated with gratitude and nostalgia, creating a poignant atmosphere.
In his concluding address, the Headmaster emphasized the importance of maintaining the same positive attitude towards juniors as the Class 8 girls’ progress to Class 12. He urged that the words spoken during the farewell should be translated into actions, fostering a culture of mutual respect and support within the school community. The event served as a fitting tribute to the departing students, creating lasting memories and reinforcing the sense of unity within the school. As they embark on new journeys, the farewell programme provided a platform for reflection, appreciation, and the promise of continued camaraderie. Preppers relished the special dinner after the programme.
Ms Anita Prabhu
MIC PS
SRFI Bangalore Club National Squash Open Tournament-24
The SRFI Bangalore Club National Squash Open Tournament held at Bangalore Club from February 24th to 27th, 2024, witnessed the participation of 13 boys and 8 girls from Lawrence School Lovedale. Organized by the SRFI, this tournament provided a platform for budding players to showcase their skills against national-seeded players.
Among the standout performers was Sia Kaul from class 8, who impressively reached the quarter-finals. Additionally, Sarvika from class 9, Kesanth, Dhruv, and Ira from classes 6 and 5 respectively, showed their potential by reaching the pre-quarterfinals. This tournament not only allowed the participants to test their abilities but also provided invaluable exposure to the competitive world of squash. Congratulations to all the participants for their commendable efforts!
Grace in Motion – A Symphony of Tradition and Elegance
The Attukal Pongala Dance Festival is a significant cultural event held annually in Kerala, India, during the Attukal Pongala festival, which is one of the largest all-women religious gatherings in the world. The dance festival showcases various traditional and contemporary dance forms, including Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Bharatanatyam, and folk dances, performed by both professional artists and amateurs. It serves as a platform for artists to celebrate Kerala's rich cultural heritage and offers a vibrant atmosphere filled with music, dance, and devotion. The festival attracts thousands of spectators, both locals, and tourists, making it a colourful and festive occasion cherished by all who attend.
SREEPARVATHY and NAVTARA BHARATHAN, two students of the Lawrence School, Lovedale along with their Dance teacher Mrs Sabitha, were incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to perform at this festival on 24th February 2024. Their participation not only allowed them to showcase their talents and skills to a wide audience but also provided them with a platform to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the festival. Performing at such a renowned event enabled our students to gain valuable experience, exposure, and recognition in the field of dance, contributing to their growth and development as artists. It was truly a memorable and enriching experience for them, one that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on their artistic journey.
Celebrating Science Day: The Lawrence School and NIT Calicut Collaboration
On February 24, 2024, The Lawrence School, in collaboration with the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Calicut, commemorated National Science Day, which falls on February 28th annually. The aim was not only to mark this significant day but also to instil a scientific temperament among the students through a series of enlightening activities.
The highlight of the event was a seminar themed "Modern Science and Real-Life Applications," featuring talks by five eminent scientists from NIT Calicut. Each speaker delved into diverse areas of science, shedding light on their real-world implications and applications.
1. Dr. Ravi Varma (HOD of Physics, NIT Calicut) - Topic: Physics in Everyday Life and Climate Change
Dr. Ravi Varma elucidated the role of physics in everyday phenomena and its impact on climate change, providing insights into how scientific principles govern our environment.
2. Dr. A. Sujith (Professor of Chemistry, NIT Calicut) - Topic: Material Chemistry*
Dr. A. Sujith delved into the realm of material chemistry, exploring the synthesis and properties of various materials and their relevance in modern technological advancements.
3. Dr. Maneesh Chandran (Assistant Professor, Dept. of Physics, NIT Calicut) - Topic: Material Physics*
Dr. Maneesh Chandran discussed the fascinating field of material physics, examining the intricate properties of materials at the atomic and molecular levels and their implications in various industries.
4. Dr. Arun Ramachandran (CEO, Optind Solutions Pvt. Ltd, NIT Calicut) - Topic: Electronics and Sound
Dr. Arun Ramachandran shared insights into the realm of electronics and sound, exploring the latest advancements in electronic devices and their role in shaping modern communication systems.
5. Mr. Bhupender Kaushal (Research Scholar, Dept. of Physics, NIT Calicut) - Topic: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Making
Mr. Bhupender Kaushal delved into the exciting domain of artificial intelligence and machine making, discussing the latest developments in AI technology and its applications in various sectors.
The seminar provided a platform for students to engage with experts, ask questions, and gain valuable insights into the diverse fields of science.
Triumph at Moxiee Tennis State-Level Non-Ranking Tournament: Lawrence Tennis Team Shines in Thudiyalur
The Lawrence Tennis Team notched up a commendable victory at the Moxiee Tennis State-level Non-Ranking Tournament held in Thudiyalur, Coimbatore, from February 24th to 26th, 2024. The team showcased outstanding skill, determination, and sportsmanship throughout the competition, providing our budding players with invaluable exposure to professional play on clay courts. This event attracted participants from various districts across Tamil Nadu, creating a platform for talent display.
Results are as follows:
U-14 Boys Doubles: Aryan Bafna & H. Arjun reached the quarterfinals.
U-18 Boys Singles: Ishaan & Riyo Keisham reached the quarterfinals.
U-18 Boys Singles Runners-Up: Khush Jhanwar.
Hearty congratulations to the Lawrence Tennis Team for their stellar performance in this tournament!
Gatekeeper Training on Suicide Prevention
To tackle the pressing issue of mental health among students, The Lawrence School, Lovedale, organized a half-day workshop titled Gatekeeper Training on Suicide Prevention on the 24th of February 2024. Attended by 37 educators from 12 schools across the Nilgiris and Coimbatore regions, the workshop aimed to equip educators with essential skills to recognize and respond to students experiencing mental health crises.
The workshop, spearheaded by Ms. Merlyn M Fernandes, a seasoned psychologist from The Lawrence School, sought to dispel myths surrounding suicide while providing participants with comprehensive knowledge on various aspects of the prevention of suicide. Among the topics covered were Non-suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI), its causes, alternatives, and distinguishing it from suicidal behavior.
Throughout the session, participants delved into understanding the warning signs of suicide and learned effective techniques to respond to students in distress. Through paired activities, case study discussions, and role-plays, educators were able to apply theoretical knowledge to real-life scenarios, enhancing their understanding and confidence in dealing with student mental health issues.
One key emphasis of the workshop was the importance of referring students to appropriate mental health professionals when necessary. Ms. Merlyn highlighted the significance of collaboration between educators and mental health experts in ensuring students receive the comprehensive support they require.
The success of the Gatekeeper Training Workshop underscores The Lawrence School's commitment to promoting mental health awareness and fostering a supportive environment for students' well-being.
Round Square History Lab
The Round Square History Lab event took place on 22nd February at 8:30 PM, hosted by St. Georges’s Grammar School in South Africa. The Central theme of the event was “Historic Leaders” aiming to discuss the contribution of leaders across the globe with a focus on sharing different local and cultural perspectives, developing critical thinking, and enhancing international understanding.
As pre-work, delegations were asked to put together a one-slide-per-school presentation answering the question: How did this event impact your country directly and how is it presented in your part of the world? Delegates were also invited to watch the Ted Talk “The Danger of a Single Story” to reflect on the importance of perspectives.
The 90-minute Zoom Call brought together around 130 students from 26 schools from 10 countries. The students were put into separate breakout rooms with one representative from each school. Each student shared the incredible story of a historic leader from their part of the world. The Lawrence School, Lovedale introduced two inspirational leaders- Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and Rani Laxmibai. They also got an opportunity to learn about leaders from different parts of the world that they had never heard of – Winnie Mandela, Emmeline Pankhurst, Abdel Nasser, and many more. The presentations were followed by a general discussion on the essential qualities of a good leader.
Overall, the conference served as a platform for meaningful dialogue and exchange of ideas from young minds across the globe. It was a great learning experience for the students as well as the teacher.
Participants: 6 Students (Class IX)
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Juhi Shah
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Shambhavi Kaushal
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Sinhayana Dilip Singh
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Tanisha Reddy
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Mrigank
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Samriddh Sah
Teacher in-charge: Divyanka Shekhawat
BATCH OF 2024 INDUCTED INTO THE ALUMNI COMMUNITY
The induction of the outgoing students of the batch of 2023-24 into the Old Lawrencians Association (OLA) was held at Ooty Club on 20 January 2024 with great enthusiasm and nostalgia. This event marked the transition of graduating students into the alumni community, fostering a sense of connection and continuity with their alma mater.
The event commenced with a warm welcome by the President of OLA, Mrs Beena Belliappa, old Lawrencian, class of 1970, followed by a brief overview of the objectives and significance of the OLA. The Headmaster, Mr D V S Rao, in his address, mentioned that the OL lunch was a kind gesture that marked the official entry of the outgoing batch into the OL Association and their continued bond with the school. The deputy headmaster, Mr Rajan Narayanan, thanked the OLA for hosting the lunch and motivated the students to strive for excellence in their future endeavors and to make meaningful contributions to society.
The other Old students present shared their experiences and emphasized the importance of staying connected with the school and fellow graduates and contributing to the betterment of the school.
The outgoing students were then invited to complete the procedure of induction by filling up the application forms for the life membership of the OLA. The ceremony served as a reminder of the enduring legacy of their alma mater and the importance of staying connected with their roots. The induction ceremony ended with a scrumptious lunch.
INTER HOUSE TENNIS TOURNAMENT 2023-24
The inter-house Tennis Competition organized for the Prep school and the Junior school students from 12th February 2024 to 17th February 2024, was a resounding success, bringing together participants from different classes for a spirited display of tennis prowess. The competition saw a remarkable turnout with participants from various skill levels. The diverse mix of players added excitement and competitiveness to the event, creating an inclusive atmosphere. The participants were primarily from Prep school and Junior School. The results are as follows:
Prep School Boys (Class 5 & 6)
Winner - Sumeru House
Runner Up - Aravalli House
Second Runner Up - Nilgiri House
Best Player Of The Tournament - Varish Sundarka -5A- Sumeru House
Most promising player of the tournament - K.P. Harshan Arya -6B -Aravalli House
Prep School Girls (Class 5 & 6)
Winner - Sumeru House
Runner Up - Aravali House
Second Runner Up - Nilgiri House
Best player of the tournament - Aashna Chaunhan-6A- Sumeru House
Most promising player of the tournament - Ira Goyal -5B - Aravalli House
Junior School Boys (Class 7 & 8)
Winner - Nilgiri House
Runner Up - Aravalli House
Second Runner Up - Vindhya House
Best player of the tournament - H. Arjun - 7D - Nilgiri House
most promising player of the tournament - Aryan Bafna - 7D - Aravalli House
Junior School Girls (Class 7 & 8)
Winner - Nilgiri House
Runner Up - Vindhya House
Second Runner Up - Aravalli House
Best player of the tournament - Sowmya . K - 8A- Nilgiri House
Most promising player of the tournament - Nandini Rana - 8C - Vindhya House
The tournament was a testament to the talent and dedication of the students. It not only provided an avenue for students to showcase their tennis skills but also promoted team spirit, sportsmanship, and school spirit.
Round Square Zoom Postcard
The Round Square Zoom postcard event took place on the 21st of February at 6:30 PM, hosted by St. Stithians Girls' College in South Africa. The central theme of the event was "Community Care," aiming to foster discussions and exchange ideas on the importance of community service and ways to enhance it.
The following students and staff members attended the event:
1, Akansha
2. Alisha A
3. Nithivarshika
4. Vaani
5. Anoushka D
6. Anushka Naik
Staff
Ms Merlyn Fernandez
Mr Kuldeep Singh
Throughout the 90-minute session, participants engaged in thoughtful discussions revolving around various aspects of community care. The topics discussed were as follows:
Common Practices towards Community Service in Your School: Participants shared insights into the prevalent practices regarding community service within their respective schools. This included initiatives, projects, and programs aimed at benefiting the community.
Should Community Service Be Awarded: The debate surrounding whether community service should be incentivized through awards or recognition was explored. Participants discussed the potential benefits and drawbacks of such approaches.
How to Solve Hunger - Initiatives School Should Take: Strategies for addressing hunger and food insecurity within communities were deliberated upon. Participants brainstormed potential initiatives that schools could undertake to contribute towards alleviating this pressing issue.
Sustainability in Community Service: The importance of sustainability in community service endeavors was emphasized. Participants discussed methods for ensuring that community service initiatives are enduring and have a lasting impact.
Skills Required for Community Service: The question of whether specific skills are necessary for effective community service was examined. Participants shared their perspectives on the essential skills and qualities needed to engage in meaningful community service activities. The students from Class Nine actively participated in the conference, contributing their thoughts, insights, and perspectives on each of the topics discussed. Their presentations and reviews added depth and diversity to the conversation, enriching the overall discourse on community care.
Overall, the Round Square Zoom postcard event served as a platform for meaningful dialogue and exchange of ideas, inspiring participants to further explore ways to foster a culture of community care and service within their schools and beyond.
Kuldeep Singh
Round Square representative
Himalayan Expedition- Batch of ‘25
Our much-awaited Himalayan expedition began in the wee hours of 10th February 2024. Mrs. Bindu Dilip Kumar, Department of Mathematics, and Ms. Sophie Benny escorted us.
Day one consisted of two flights from Coimbatore to Dehradun via Delhi. We were welcomed with steaming cups of rhododendron tea at Hotel Regenta where we stayed for the night. Following a delicious breakfast, we left for Kund on the next day along a very scenic route covered with rolling green mountains and shimmering turquoise rivers. On the way we got to witness a sight straight out of our geography textbooks, the confluence of the rivers Bhagirathi and Alaknanda at Devprayag. It was not merely a confluence of rivers but it was the union of two different origins, two different stories, to create the holy Ganga which enriches the lives of millions of people. After a quick lunch break, we stopped to pay our tributes at the serene Dhari Devi temple which was located on the banks of the Alaknanda River between Srinagar and Rudraprayag. We were thrilled at the opportunity of walking across a hanging bridge adjacent to the temple. Around 5.30 pm, the sight of the setting sun behind the snow-capped mountains left us breathless. We followed the trail leading us closer to the ethereal mountains and reached our destination for the day- Himalayan Ecolodges. At the sight of the mountains, we realized the enormous possibilities that the trip had in store for us.
The next day, we set off on our first adventure; a trek to Devariyatal near Sari village which was located at 2,400 meters above sea level. This gave us a real taste of the challenge that lay ahead of us, scaling the mighty Chandrashila. The weariness of the trek was instantly replaced by the joy of seeing pristine white snow at the summit. The inner child in each one of us was set free the moment we stepped into the snow and we began hurling snow at each other, sliding down it and building snowmen. Returning from the trek we had our first encounter with water as we splashed about in the freezing waters of River Mandakini. We ended the day with a typical camping activity- dancing around a bonfire. Day 4 was a laidback day as we journeyed to our base camp in Chopta and had a lot of fun rolling about in the deep snow that surrounded our tents.
We began Day 5 at the break of dawn, all geared up for what was deemed to be the highlight of the trip, to conquer Chandrashila. We started our 4km trek at 8.45 am and trudged along the rugged and narrow paths covered with snow. With grit and determination, we breached the hurdles to make it to Tungnath temple. Due to unforeseen circumstances, we were unable to reach the summit of Chandrashila. However, we realized all our struggles were still worth it the moment we witnessed the halo effect of the sun on the magnificent snow-covered peaks. The clouds rushing through the mountains made us feel as if we were all starring in a movie. Upon descending we had steaming plates of Maggi and pakoras which felt like a warm blanket amidst the cold. At night, the clear sky offered us breathtaking views of various constellations.
Day 6 turned out to be the most memorable part of our trip as we traveled to Rishikesh for river rafting. On hearing the numerous safety guidelines, we all were a bit skeptical about getting aboard the rafts but once we started rafting we floated above all our concerns and were surprised at the amount of knowledge our guides passed on to us. This experience brought about team spirit and taught us that friendship would help us brave all odds. That evening we gathered for an impromptu dance session and retired early to our tents.
We set out the next morning to Mussoorie for a shopping spree along Mall Road. The road boasted of many vendors selling trinkets and souvenirs which we purchased for our loved ones. We were thrilled to find a library dedicated to Mussoorie’s Wordsworth, Ruskin Bond. Our accommodation for the night happened to be a camp located in the vicinity of a bird sanctuary. It had a lot of activities out of which we decided to partake in the freefall. The freefall had us climbing a 50-foot-tall tree and letting go from the top. This was yet another adventurous activity that helped many of us overcome our fears.
The next day at the airport on our journey back to school, we realized how the days flew by. The trip was not merely a bunch of bus rides or photographs but an emotional connection with nature which gave us memories we will cherish for the rest of our lives. The takeaway of the trip was indeed the importance of friendship and teamwork. We realized after crossing our obstacles that if we stand together as one with the words ‘Never Give In’ echoing in our hearts nothing is impossible in this world.
BY-
Gopika Sunil
Kamalini Ramesh
Enriching Cultural Exchange: Korean Students Explore The Lawrence School Campus
On Saturday, February 17th, our school had the pleasure of hosting a group of Korean students, accompanied by Mr. Choi, who served as both a Taekwondo coach and a House master. The visit was aimed at fostering cultural exchange and providing an enriching experience for both the Korean students and our Class 5 students.
Activities and Interactions:
The primary interaction took place in the Large Hall of the Prep School. One standout moment was when a Korean student showcased remarkable musical talent by playing the guitar, sparking a collaborative singing session among the attendees. This cultural exchange facilitated a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other's traditions and talents.
During discussions, the Korean staff expressed admiration for the diversity within the Indian educational system, particularly highlighting the multitude of languages and cultures present. They noted that such diversity fosters adaptability among Indian students—a skill that is invaluable in today's interconnected world. Moreover, they shared insights into the challenges faced by Korean students due to the predominantly monolingual environment in Korea, making adaptation to diverse settings more challenging.
Campus Tour and Departure
Following the interactive session, the Korean students enjoyed a guided tour of our campus, getting a glimpse into our facilities and daily school life. The visit concluded with a warm tea session, providing an opportunity for further informal interactions and exchange of experiences.
The visit by the Korean students served as a meaningful cultural exchange, emphasizing the value of diversity within our education system. It showcased our students' ability to embrace and appreciate different cultures and perspectives—a strength that sets them apart in an increasingly globalized world. We hope that this visit has left a lasting impression on both our students and our Korean guests, fostering mutual respect and understanding.
Aravalli House – Junior School
Lunch Outing -11 February 2024
Around 11 AM, on Sunday, 11 February 2024, we, the pupils of Aravalli House, were eager to leave for Highland Hotel, where a scrumptious meal awaited us. The Aravallians, along with our Housemaster Mr. N.T. Poopathy, Mr. N. Dilip Kumar, our matron Ms. Jeyalakshmi and Rajkumar Anna, left the premises at 11:30 AM. Our excitement was palpable and audible to everyone on the road.
Upon arriving at the hotel, we eagerly rushed to play with the Xbox console, only to find out that it was out of order. We played some games for an hour, then enjoyed a delicious lunch buffet with a wide variety of dishes. After taking a group photo, we headed back to The Lawrence School, Lovedale on the bus.
Our trip officially ended at 2:45 PM when we arrived back at school. We would like to express our gratitude to our Housemaster for organizing this fantastic trip.
Devansh Mutha(Class 8C)-Aravalli House
Daksh Dhansoia(Class 8D)- Aravalli House
Inter House English Storytelling Competition
Storytelling is a powerful tool for both entertainment and education. The Inter House English Story Telling Competition for the Class V students was held on 9th February 2024 at 2:15 pm.
The competition commenced with a warm welcome by the student host, followed by the introduction of the panel of judges. The Judges were Mr Gijo Joseph, HOD-English, and student Judges- Priya Sundaram and Arjun Rajora. Each house was represented by four selected storytellers who showcased their storytelling prowess, captivating the audience with their narrative skills. Engaging with Classic tales like Tenali Raman, Akbar Birbal, and Aesop’s fables allowed students to explore creativity and learn valuable lessons. Mr. Gijo appreciated the ambiance and presentation of the stories by 16 enthusiastic participants. The students as well as the staff of the Prep School were appreciated for their effort in offering rich narratives with moral lessons.
Results
Individual Position:
1. Arushi Gupta, 5C, Sumeru - I
2. Avishka Sharma, 5B, Vindhya - II
3. Rananjay Pawar, 5B, Aravalli - III
House Position:
1. Sumeru - 199 Points - I
2. Aravalli and Vindhya - 196 Points - II
Inter House Computer Digi Quiz 2024 - Prep School
The Inter House Computer Digi Quiz 2024 for Prep School was held on 08th, Feb, 2024. The venue for the event was the Prep School Large Hall. The quiz entailed six rounds. The first round was History of Computers, the second round was First Inventions related to Computers.The third round was Abbreviations and round, number four was Keyboard Shortcuts. Fifth and sixth rounds had questions related to Personalities and New Gadgets respectively.
Rules for the quiz were announced and explained before the commencement of the Quiz. There were four teams. Each team had four participants from classes five A, B and C. There were some audience rounds, wherein the audience participated with great enthusiasm and zeal.
The results were as follows:
