Lovedale Tidings - February 2025
Cyber Safety Awareness Sessions at The Lawrence School
On the 26th of February 2025, The Lawrence School, Lovedale hosted an enlightening series of Cyber Safety Awareness sessions for students in classes 7, 8, 9, and the new class 12. These sessions were conducted by Mr. Dinesh Paranthagan, the CEO and Founder of Hackup Technology, Coimbatore. Mr. Dinesh is a recognized expert in the field of cybersecurity. He serves as a consultant for the Tamil Nadu Police Cyber Crime Department and his extensive experience includes working on critical projects for the Indian Army and Indian Air Force, showcasing his commitment to enhancing national security through technology.
Session Highlights
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Interactive Learning: The sessions were designed to engage students actively, providing them with essential knowledge about online safety, data protection, and the importance of cybersecurity in today’s digital age.
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Practical Tools and Resources: Mr. Dinesh shared various tools and resources that students can use to protect themselves online, including data breach checks and mobile safety applications.
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Empowering the Next Generation: The primary goal of these sessions was to empower students with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.
Rekindling Memories: 40th Reunion of the Old Lawrencians, Class of 1985
On February 22, 2025, The Lawrence School, Lovedale, hosted the 40th reunion of the Old Lawrencians from the Class of 1985. The gathering brought together alumni who had once lived as boarders, many of whom were returning to the campus after decades. It was a heartfelt celebration of the school's legacy, the bonds formed over the years, and the shared experience of life in a boarding house away from home.
The day began with a warm welcome from the school's leadership, who expressed their gratitude for the alumni’s continued connection with their alma mater. The Old Lawrencians then embarked on a campus tour, revisiting familiar spots that had once been part of their daily lives. Nostalgia filled the air as they walked through the school grounds, sharing stories of their time at Lawrence—moments of friendship, fun, and challenges that shaped their formative years. A special lunch was hosted in the Junior School dining hall, allowing the alumni to relive their school days through a familiar setting and a sumptuous meal. This was followed by a hymn-singing session in the Large Hall, where the voices of past and present blended in harmony, evoking memories of morning assemblies and chapel services.
The Spirit of The Lawrence School
More than just a reunion, the event was a testament to the deep love and respect that Old Lawrencians hold for their alma mater. It was a reaffirmation of the values, friendships, and life lessons that Lawrence School instills in its students. For many, the experience of boarding school—being away from home—was a defining chapter in their lives. It was here that they forged lifelong friendships and learned invaluable lessons in independence, resilience, and community living.
The event also underscored the enduring pride that alumni take in their school. While the campus has evolved over the years, the core values of The Lawrence School—respect, camaraderie, and a commitment to excellence—remain unchanged, continuing to unite generations of Lawrencians across time.
Anxiety Management
A session aimed at helping Class 10 girls manage anxiety in the lead-up to their exams was conducted by the Counselor, Ms. Merlyn.
Key Takeaways:
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Simple Strategies to Manage Anxiety: The counselor introduced practical methods for reducing anxiety both before and during exams. These strategies are designed to help students maintain focus and calmness throughout their exam period.
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Importance of Adequate Sleep: The counselor emphasized the significance of a good night’s sleep, particularly during exam preparation. Students were reminded that sleep is essential for optimal brain function, memory retention, and overall well-being.
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Deep Breathing Techniques: The role of deep breathing was highlighted as an effective tool to calm nerves and manage anxiety. A video demonstrating the Box Breathing Technique was shown, guiding the students on how to use this technique to reduce stress in high-pressure situations.
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Circle of Control: To help the students manage their concerns, the Circle of Control concept was introduced. The students were encouraged to focus on aspects of their exam preparation and performance that are within their control, such as time management and study techniques, while letting go of things beyond their control, like outcomes or unexpected changes.
Additionally, students were encouraged to uphold integrity throughout the examination process.
A Journey to the Heights: The Class 11 Expedition to Chandrashila
On February 11th, 46 boys of Class 11, accompanied by their teachers Mr. Dilip Kumar and Mr. Arnab Chakrobarthy, embarked on a thrilling 10-day expedition to Chandrashila, a majestic Himalayan peak standing at 4000 meters. Their journey began from school, heading to Coimbatore Airport and flying to Delhi before proceeding to Dehradun and reaching their first stop, Rishikesh. After an overnight stay, they traveled to Camp High Five in Jayalgarh, where they enjoyed tent accommodations, delicious North Indian cuisine, and the warmth of a bonfire.
The next day and a half were filled with adventure as the students participated in rafting on the Alaknanda River, village treks, and rappelling. The rafting experience was particularly memorable with moments of raft toppling, jumping into the river, and an underwater group photo. They also explored village life, learning about local farming practices, and faced physical challenges like rappelling and jumar climbing.
On February 16th, the much-anticipated climb to Chandrashila Peak began at 4:30 am. Equipped with trekking gear and walking sticks, the students braved thin air and foot-deep snow as they ascended, stopping at the Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world, before reaching the summit. The group waited at the peak to take a triumphant photo with their school flag, filled with pride and satisfaction at their accomplishment.
The journey concluded with a return to Rishikesh and some shopping along the sacred Ganges before heading back to Dehradun and flying home via Delhi. They arrived at school on February 19th, their hearts and minds enriched by this incredible adventure—one they would cherish forever.
Himalayan Expedition: A Journey of Adventure and Growth
The week-long Himalayan Expedition 2025 for Class XI Girls, led by Ms. Bindu Dilipkumar and Ms. Josephine, took place from the 11th to the 18th of February. This unforgettable journey was filled with adventure, challenges, and memories that will last a lifetime. From the tranquil Devariya Tal to the sacred heights of Tungnath Temple and the Chandrashila Peak, every destination imparted invaluable lessons in resilience and teamwork. The entire group of 31 girls reached the summit of Chandrashila with remarkable ease, despite the challenges along the way. The trek to Chandrashila, in particular, offered breathtaking vistas and the magical experience of snow at the summit. Throughout the expedition, the girls forged stronger bonds through activities like rafting, bonfires, and dance, creating moments that will stay with them forever. The Ganga Aarti in Rishikesh provided a serene and fitting conclusion to the trip, leaving everyone filled with a deep sense of gratitude. This journey not only strengthened friendships but also reminded the girls that stepping outside of their comfort zones brings the most rewarding experiences.
A Memorable Lunch Outing for Nilgiri House Junior School Students
On February 16, 2025, Nilgiri House of Junior School went on a delightful lunch outing. With 59 students, the Housemaster, Assistant Housemaster, Matron, and Dormitory Assistant, the group left the school at 10:45 AM and arrived at Hotel Highland, Doddabetta, by 11:20 AM. The students enjoyed various games from 11:20 AM to 12:45 PM and had a refreshing juice at 11:50 AM. At 12:45 PM, the hotel staff warmly welcomed them, and before lunch, the group gathered in the conference hall to express gratitude to Murali Anna for his five years of dedicated service to Nilgiri House.
Lunch began at 1:00 PM, and the students enjoyed the meal, the Headmaster joined the group for lunch, making the occasion even more special. After lunch, a memorable group photo was taken with the Headmaster, and each student was gifted a pen as a souvenir. The group returned to school by 3:05 PM, filled with happiness and lasting memories. The outing was a great success, leaving everyone with unforgettable moments.
An Emotional Farewell: Celebrating Memories and Friendships
The Girls' School organized a farewell for the class XII girls on 08/02/2025. The farewell ceremony was an emotional and heartwarming occasion. The seniors gave heartfelt speeches, expressing their gratitude for the friendships, lessons, and unforgettable memories they had made during their time at the hostel. They reflected on the bonds they shared with their fellow students and teachers, making the moment even more special. A beautiful farewell song was sung, creating a harmonious and touching atmosphere that left everyone in tears. The event concluded with a delicious dinner, where everyone enjoyed each other’s company one last time. This farewell not only marked the end of their journey at the hostel but also celebrated their growth, achievements, and the lasting friendships that would stay with them forever.
Inter-House Equestrian Competition 2024-25
The Inter-House Equestrian Competition for the academic year 2024-25 concluded on February 8th, 2025, showcasing remarkable skills of the students. The event, held over several days from February 4th to 8th, included various competitive categories for both boys and girls across different age groups. Here is a summary of the results:
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Hacks U-12, Class 5th Boys (February 4th): Athiyan G (Nilgiri) and Vishal N (Vindhya) shared the top position with their horses Aachen and Pretty Angel, respectively. Other strong contenders included Aren Deshmukh (Aravalli) and Srinav SS (Nilgiri), securing second and third places.
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Riding Correct Posture and Trotting U-12, Class 5th Girls (February 6th): Jessmitha from Nilgiri topped the event, with Tara Nandakumar from Sumeru claiming second. Aanya Goswami from Vindhya shared the second spot, while Vaanya Chaudhary and Seher Makhija (Nilgiri) tied for third.
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Hunter Trials U-12, Class 6th Boys (February 7th): Raudran (Nilgiri) secured first place, while Manvith Reddy and Jayharith from Aravalli earned second place. Samar Wakankar (Sumeru) and Vahin Singh Sambayal (Nilgiri) finished in third.
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Hacks U-12, Class 6th Boys (February 7th): Skandan K (Aravalli) and Devrat Mahalawat (Nilgiri) took the first position with their horses. S S Sharav (Vindhya) earned second place, while ARB Mithran (Aravalli) took third.
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Hunter Trials U-12, Class 6th Girls (February 6th): Aadya Rao P from Vindhya triumphed with her horse Aura, while Ngangwuang N D (Aravalli) and Vrinda Nagar (Aravalli) secured second place. Olivia Chacko (Sumeru) and Jai Praneetha R (Nilgiri) finished in third.
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Hacks U-12, Class 6th Girls (February 6th): Krisha Prasad (Vindhya) emerged first with Cape Taneros, while Aarushi Gupta (Sumeru) and Mrinmayee Srivastava (Sumeru) tied for second. Jaansi Priya (Nilgiri) and Aaradiya (Aravalli) claimed third.
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Ball and Bucket Race, Class 7th Boys (February 8th): The competition saw intense action with Vinay (Aravalli) clinching the top position, followed by Nikilesh (Nilgiri) in second and Nandkishore (Sumeru) in third.
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Zig Zag Race, Class 7th Boys (February 8th): Sparsh Patil (Vindhya) won the first place, with Rithun M (Nilgiri) and Pratyush Chaudhary (Nilgiri) finishing second and third, respectively.
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Zig Zag Race, Class 7th Girls (February 8th): Janisha Reddy (Vindhya) stood out with a stellar performance to secure the first position.
Nature Club’s Visit to the Arboretum in Ooty
The students of the Nature Club at The Lawrence School embarked on a fascinating expedition to the Arboretum in Ooty, guided by their teachers, SKR Ma’am and Sangeetha Ma’am. The journey began in the afternoon, and along the way, the group engaged in discussions about various tree species, both endemic and exotic.
The Arboretum, a specialized botanical garden dedicated to the cultivation and study of trees, shrubs, and woody plants, provided an opportunity to explore a living museum of over 60 different countries' flora. Known for its focus on conifers, flowering trees, and rare plant families, the Arboretum plays a vital role in environmental preservation, especially in maintaining endangered plant species. The students enjoyed the serene atmosphere of the Arboretum, appreciating its cool and calming environment—an experience that words could scarcely capture but one that left a lasting impression.
Inter House Computer Digi Quiz 2025 - Prep School
The much-awaited Inter House Computer Digi Quiz 2025 was held on the 6th of February, 2025, at the Prep School Large Hall, marking a vibrant celebration of knowledge and technology. The event saw active participation from four enthusiastic teams, each representing a house, with a total of 16 participants from Class V.
The quiz consisted of six exciting rounds:
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Evolution of Computers
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Internet and Email
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Artificial Intelligence
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Keyboard Shortcuts
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Important Personalities in Computer Science
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Latest Gadgets and Technology
The rules were clearly explained before the quiz commenced, ensuring a smooth flow of the event. The audience also joined in the fun with a series of interactive rounds, contributing to the high-energy atmosphere throughout the quiz.
Manjacombai Trek: An Adventure of Nature, Teamwork, and Growth
On February 7th, 2025, The Lawrence School, Lovedale's Trekking Club embarked on an exciting journey to Manjacombai, with 20 students and their guiding teachers, Mr. Adhya Shankar Pandey, Dr. Sanjay, Mr. Tiwari, Ms. Arundhati, and Ms. Merlyn. The trek offered breathtaking views of nature, starting with a visit to the sacred Manjacombai temple, where the students took a moment to appreciate its spiritual significance.
The highlight of the trek was the challenging hike to a nearby waterfall, where students navigated slippery rocks with teamwork and empathy, helping each other along the way. A village guard dog also joined the trek, adding to the unique experience. The journey offered valuable lessons in collaboration, respect for nature, and wildlife, leaving students with lasting memories and life lessons.
Sumeru House (Junior School) Boys Enjoy a Memorable Lunch Outing to Accord Highland Hotel
On the 2nd of February 2025, the Junior School Sumeru House boys enjoyed a much-anticipated lunch outing to the scenic Accord Highland Hotel in Dodabetta, Ooty. A group of 60 enthusiastic students, accompanied by their staff escorts, embarked on the journey at 11:30 AM, traveling in two buses.
The students were welcomed at the hotel with tika and refreshing welcome drinks by the hotel staff, before being guided to their designated club area. The afternoon was filled with a variety of games, followed by a special lunch in a beautifully arranged dining hall. The menu offered a delightful selection of local and continental dishes, catering to diverse tastes. The boys thoroughly enjoyed the meal, sharing moments of laughter and camaraderie.
After lunch, the students had the opportunity to explore the hotel’s lush surroundings, soaking in the fresh mountain air and picturesque landscape. While some students participated in light recreational activities, others relished the tranquility of the environment.
At 2:30 PM, the group gathered and prepared for the return journey, ensuring all students were accounted for before boarding the buses. The ride back to Junior School was smooth and uneventful, with students cherishing the memories of an afternoon well spent. They arrived back at 3:10 PM, safe and sound, concluding a memorable outing filled with good food, fun, and camaraderie.This outing provided a refreshing break for the students, reinforcing the importance of relaxation and friendship.
