Ask the Principal: Top 5 Questions Parents Ask About Our Vision

It is about that time of the year, when parents are stressed about choosing the best school for their child’s academic journey. Browsing school brochures, reading the website content, watching YouTube videos, gauging parent’s testimonials, is all part of the game. But here is the fact; despite choosing any school for your children’s academic success, you must be armed with a questionnaire for the principal of any institution.

At Billabong High International School (BHIS), we believe that transparency is the cornerstone of a strong parent-school partnership. They aren’t just looking for school principal interview questions to grill the principal with; they are looking for a promise of a better future for their children. To help you navigate this journey, we have compiled the top five questions that you must ask the principal before enrolling your tiny tot.

1. “Exactly what does ‘Innovation’ entail in your curriculum?”

The word innovation has become buzzword talk for many people. But for us, innovation, innovation, and innovation are part of innovation. School vision and mission explained – innovation is our heartbeat.

At BHIS, innovation does not mean that we need to install a row of tablets inside the classroom. Innovation for us means thinking differently. Our philosophy, “School of Innovation,” encourages us to diverge from the “industrial model” of education, where all children are expected to acquire the same knowledge, at the same time, and in the same way.

Instead, our school adopts the interdisciplinary method. Whether it’s the preschool program at the preschool level or the primary school modules, we teach the children to ask “Why?” “How?” and not just “What?” We implement technology, design, and innovation into our basic subjects, making sure the children aren’t just receivers of knowledge, but producers too.

2. “How do you balance academic rigor with holistic development?”

“Fun” or “creativity” can come at the expense of a focus on excellence, I think. The answer I always give parents on this question is that they’re two sides of the same coin. Real leadership in education comes from understanding that a happy, secure child is a ready-to-learn child.

We offer the CBSE and Cambridge curriculum, which is acknowledged internationally for its comprehensive nature. But we provide it with interesting themes. Like, the math learning procedure related to measurement might take place in a “mock kitchen” or a historical lesson could be delivered through a dramatic skit. The benefit of experiential learning is that students will be able to maintain their learning capabilities at a far higher level than through other methods of learning such as cramming. We are teaching them to perform in life, not in an examination.

3. “How does the school ensure my child is safe and nurtured?”

As a parent, your primary concern is the physical and emotional safety of your “blooming bud.” Our vision includes creating a “Sanctuary of Learning.” This means more than just CCTV cameras and security guards—though we have those in plenty.

It means creating an environment where a child feels safe to fail. Innovation requires risk-taking. If a child is afraid of being ridiculed for a wrong answer, they will never try something new. Our teachers are trained to be facilitators and mentors, not just lecturers. We focus heavily on Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), helping children navigate their feelings, build empathy for their peers, and develop the resilience needed to face the challenges of the 21st century.

4. “What is ‘The Billabong Edge’ in the long run?”

When reviewing the questions for an interview with the school principal, one question that many parents ask considers the “exit profile” of their student. What does a Billabongite go on to become? “Our vision is to produce global citizens.”

“Whatever your child’s entry level into our institution – right from our Nursery program at our preschool or even entry into Class 1 – our focus remains the same: developing our ‘Growth Mindset’ approach.”

“The ‘Billabong Edge’ student attributes would include being ‘digitally literate,’ ‘culturally savvy,’ and ‘mentally curious.’ They would not merely possess a certification; they would also possess ‘soft skills’: ‘communication skills,’ ‘team skills,’ ‘critical thinking skills’ – the ‘must-haves’ of great institutions and the best employers alike.”

5. “How do you involve parents in this vision?”

We don’t believe in “drop and go” education. Our vision is a tripartite agreement between the school, the student, and the parent. We hold regular orientations and workshops because we want you to understand the “why” behind our methods. When the language used at home aligns with the language used at school, the child thrives. We see you as partners in this beautiful journey of discovery.

Understanding the Pillars of Our Growth

When we look at school vision and mission explained, it’s important to see the structure behind the sentiment. Our mission is to provide a world-class educational experience that prioritizes the learner’s journey. We achieve this through:

• Brain-Based Learning: Utilizing research on how the young brain actually absorbs and retains information.
• Integrated Technology: Using digital tools to enhance, not replace, human interaction.
• Professional Development: Ensuring our staff embodies leadership in education by staying updated with the latest pedagogical trends.

We understand that for a parent, the transition from the playful days of Nursery to the more structured environment of Class 1 can feel daunting. That is why we have integrated our preschool and our high school (BHIS) into one seamless experience. You won’t have to worry about the “hunting spree” for a new school once your child finishes Senior KG; the path is already paved for them.

An Afterword for Our Hardworking Parents

To the parents reading this: we know the weight of the responsibility you carry. Choosing a school is like choosing a second home for your child. It is a task that requires patience, research, and a bit of intuition. You are doing a wonderful job, and your dedication to finding the right fit is the first step in ensuring your child’s success. Whether your child grows up to be a surgeon, an animator, or an entrepreneur, the foundation you lay today will be the ground they stand on tomorrow.

By keeping a close eye on school enrolment deadlines and understanding the heart of our vision, you are giving your child the best possible start. Also, as we discussed in this article, asking the right set of questions, at the right time to the right person in charge, will create a long and fruitful academic journey for your child.

The BHIS Legacy: Redefining the “School of Innovation”

We take immense pride in the fact that our institutions are consistently ranked among the Best CBSE Schools in Malad, the Best Cambridge Schools in Mulund, the Best Cambridge Schools in Juhu, and the Best CBSE Schools in Hadapsar. This esteemed standing is the fruit of years of meticulous research, a steadfast dedication to scholastic brilliance, and an authentic passion for nurturing the potential of every child. We have carefully built a secure and vibrant ecosystem where your child’s unique talents—whether they lie in logical analysis or artistic expression—are polished into genuine mastery.

At Billabong High International School, we are dedicated to coaching both parents and students to navigate the educational landscape with confidence. Visit us us to explore how we guide parents and students in making the best decisions regarding the ideal time to become part of our flourishing community.