A robust academic foundation is crucial in pursuing success, but education today calls for far more than just stellar grades. At GEMS Akademia International School (GAIS), Kolkata‘s distinguished day boarding and residential school, we recognize that true education fuses academics with extra-curricular engagement, fostering well-rounded individuals poised for a dynamic future.
Through esteemed collaborations with institutions such as the University of Pennsylvania, GAIS offers IGCSE and CISCE curriculum that transcends the confines of textbooks, cultivating personal growth, leadership qualities, and a sense of belonging. Extra-curricular activities are essential to this approach, offering invaluable benefits that contribute significantly to a student’s personal and academic development.
This guide is crafted to help parents and students understand the indispensable role of extra-curricular activities at GAIS and how they fundamentally shape a student’s future.
Deepening Academic Knowledge Through Cross-Curricular Exploration
At GAIS, a defining feature of our curriculum is its cross-curricular integration, seamlessly blending with core subjects and enabling students to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world applications. Activities like our Science Fest “Prismatic” and Commerce Fest “CommFiesta” immerse students in experiential learning, letting them delve into subjects they study in class through hands-on projects and presentations. “CommFiesta” also features the CELL -Centre for Entrepreneurial Learning, where young learners explore entrepreneurship and financial literacy, honing practical business skills early in their educational journey.
These cross-curricular experiences encourage students to look beyond textbooks, illuminating the practical significance of their studies and help gain insights that enhance their academic understanding and transcend disciplinary boundaries.
Fostering Creativity and Self-Expression
GAIS is devoted to cultivating creativity through activities that encourage self-expression. With TORRINS offering specialized dance and music training, students have the chance to learn instruments like drums, guitar, synthesizer, percussion or pursue a passion for dance. This hands-on training nurtures patience, rhythm, and discipline, while instilling creative confidence.
Additionally, our school features #VjGAIS, a one-of-a-kind platform for student-led “Studio Talks,” where students present varied perspectives on current issues and voice their ideas on relevant global topics.
We also encourage students to TED-style talks help students refine public speaking, analytical thinking, and creative problem-solving skills — essential attributes for future leaders. By exploring their creativity and presenting ideas within a supportive setting, students gain confidence and develop the power of persuasive storytelling and eloquent communication.
Encouraging Leadership and Responsibility
Leadership is nurtured at GAIS through extra-curricular activities that instill responsibility and integrity. Students are encouraged to assume roles within clubs, societies, and teams, fostering a commitment to decision-making, time management, and collaboration. Be it as editors of the school magazine, leaders on sports teams, or presidents of clubs, students learn to lead by example and inspire their peers.
Moreover, Circle Time in assemblies offers younger students a space to share ideas and build confidence in expressing themselves, while Special Assemblies promote cultural appreciation, helping students understand and embrace diverse traditions. Such gatherings empower students to step into leadership roles and foster a sense of community and responsibility.
Cultivating Cultural Awareness and Social Empathy
GAIS is committed to building a culturally aware, empathetic community. Through special assemblies and culturally focused activities, students are exposed to diverse traditions and values. These assemblies provide a platform for students to share their backgrounds, encouraging an inclusive, respectful school atmosphere. Such experiences enrich students’ social skills and expand their perspectives, equipping them to become compassionate, responsible global citizens.
In addition, circle time during assemblies allows younger students to participate in open discussions, developing emotional intelligence and understanding the importance of empathy and mutual respect. These gatherings provide students with a solid foundation of social skills and cultural awareness from an early age.
Enhancing Physical and Mental Well-being
GAIS recognizes the importance of physical education and sports for a healthy mind and body. Our campus features a sprawling 20,000-square-foot sports arena with artificial turf and facilities for tennis, basketball, volleyball, futsal and a dedicated children’s play area, where students engage in physical activities that develop resilience, teamwork, and discipline.
Adding to our extensive facilities is a 25-meter swimming pool, which provides students with the opportunity to learn and practice swimming. Swimming not only enhances cardiovascular fitness but also promotes relaxation and stress relief, making it a holistic physical activity that contributes to overall mental well-being.
Building Community Spirit and a Sense of Belonging
Extra-curricular activities at GAIS serve as a conduit for building lifelong friendships and a sense of community. In a day boarding and residential school setting, bonds extend beyond the classroom, creating meaningful relationships that last a lifetime. Activities such as dance and music lessons, participation in cultural events and involvement in leadership roles foster a deep sense of camaraderie and shared experience.
School-wide projects, festivals, and sports events offer opportunities for students to interact with peers who share similar interests, enhancing interpersonal skills and teaching students to appreciate diversity. Through such interactions, students understand the values of teamwork, tolerance, and unity.
GEMS Akademia International School is committed to delivering a holistic education that cultivates well-rounded, compassionate, and capable individuals. Through a curriculum that integrates academics and extra-curricular activities, GAIS allows students to explore a diverse range of interests, develop essential life skills, and build lasting connections within their community.
Choosing GAIS is a commitment to an education that values each student’s unique strengths and aspirations. By embracing extra-curricular activities, parents and students embark on a journey of lifelong learning, personal development, and meaningful relationships.
