On the 26th of September 2019, Loreto Day School, Elliot Road JPIC team with the help of the Student Council organised a special
assembly ’Prayer for Amazon' to spread awareness about the devastating fire in the Amazon Rainforest and its impact on our environment
15 students and 2 teachers each, from the six neighbourhood schools were invited to attend the assembly - St. Thomas Day School, Jewish Girl's School, Saifee Hall School,
St. Augustine's Day School, St. Mary's School and Seven Day Adventists School.
The programme began with spreading awareness about the current situation in Amazon followed by power point presentation, videos and prayer service. The posters on the
same made by the children in school were indicative of their sensitivity on this issue. These were displayed in the hall and our guests were impressed with their
creativity and presentation.
Students of classes III and IV amazed the audience with their singing skills (Earth Song, Lion Sleeps Tonight) while the Elocution of an original poetry written by a
Loreto student brought goosebumps.
The guest schools were not only appreciative of the programme but said there were facts which were hitherto unknown to them. The feedback received by our guest schools
strengthened our conviction that we are on the right path.
Our Principal, Sr. Marilla’s motivational speech made us sit up and wonder. It dawned upon us that there is an urgent need to look into this aspect. As the guest teacher
from St Augustine summed up that the man made aspect of the fire is a serious concern for the entire world.
would like to thank our Principal Sr. Marilla for guiding and supporting us throughout
Pratyusha Mohanty
XII - C
On 26th July 2019 girls from classes 11 and 12 were taken to Science City
to be a part of a plantation programme organised by Mother Earth Foundation.
They were accompanied by Mrs. Sujata Ganguly and Ms. Debomita Majumdar.
Our girls planted 3 saplings at the venue. For many of them, it was a first
time experience which they thoroughly enjoyed. Our heartfelt gratitude towards Sr.
Marilla, who gave us the opportunity to participate in such an enriching programme.
‘Trees are the kindest things we grow’- Harry Behn, the poet, has rightly said this in
his poem as the needs of all the living beings are fulfilled by trees. While we realize
their importance, their depleting number has become a matter of serious concern.
Taking an initiative to address this issue in our own way, Loreto Day School, Junior
Section celebrated Vanmohotsav on its premises on 3rd July 2019.The day began
with the presentation of 100 saplings to the parents who were keen to adopt a plant
.The presentation was done by our school JPIC representatives. Tracking these
saplings will be done periodically. The parents will be reporting after a month to their
respective JPIC representative about the growth of the sapling.
The theme for this year’s celebration was ‘Nurture a Plant at Home’. The students of
classes Nursery to V attended the programme in the junior school hall. The
programme began with a prayer service. The students of class V expressed their
gratitude to God for the gift of nature and sought God’s blessings so that they could
take better care of it. This was followed by sharing of some information on
Vanmohotsav illustrated by a PowerPoint presentation. The students of class IV
performed a skit, ‘The Giving Tree’ which highlighted the enduring friendship
between a boy and a tree and their everlasting bond. The students of class III recited
a poem, ‘Trees are the Kindest Things I Know. Through the poem, they enlightened
us on how trees are a source of inspiration for us and its influence on our lives. This
was followed by a dance performance which depicted the unbreakable bond
between humans and trees. Beautiful Rakhis made by class III students were tied
around the trees in the garden and compound by Sr. Marilla Ann D’Souza, teachers
and few invited parents. They also hugged the trees to show love and respect for
nature.
The programme concluded with a video presentation on how a coconut seller took
an initiative to ’nurture a plant at home’ to his buyers. Our Principal Sr. Marilla then
presented the plants to the invited parents to adopt them. She appreciated the effort
of the students and teachers in making this celebration a grand success. While our
Junior School coordinator, Mrs. Rosalinda Ireland, gave the Vote of Thanks, it was
truly satisfying to note that this event had created vivid images in the minds of the
young students which left a positive lasting impression on them.
On 16th November, class 9 – I had an outreach programme to Shishu
Bhavan which is located in AJC Bose Road. We all were accompanied by our teacher Ms. S. Nandi,
when we reached there our heart melted on seeing the mentally and physically challenged children.
We had prepared a small programme for the kids staying there.
There we all played with these kids in a colourful playground.
But as we know every good thing comes to an end, similarly it was time for us to leave from
the venue. We departed from there with lots of love, respect and affection within our
hearts for those innocent children.
Class 6(i) went to Future hope school and performed few things for them,
like short prayer service, with dance, then games and other things. The outreach programme was from
9:30 am – 12:30 pm. As a token of love and respect the children gave them many toys and games.
They also gave them stationeries and toffees. Everyone had lot of fun. The children were
accompanied by their class teacher. It was a very enriching experience for the children of Loreto,
as well as for the Future hope kids.
On the 6th of August, 2016, three Anglo – Indian Teachers along with two
students visited Lawrence D’Souza Home (Old Age Home)
The Homes comprised of sixteen inmates. We interacted with them for a
short while. We visited a few of them in their rooms as they were unable to spend any time with us in the hall.
One of the lady inmates had already walked the Earth for the last 102 years.
It was a fun filled evening as it brought joy to the inmates.
A token of Love on behalf of the school was given to each one of them. It was an enriching and
uplifting experience. An experience to cherish.
‘One billion rising’ was an enriching program held at Mohurkunj on the 13th of February.
It was an eye – opener and instilled us with the knowledge of our society. The dances, street
plays and the dramas were extraordinary. The presence of boy – bands like the ‘voicez’
and ‘Shane Hyrapiet’ took the program to whole new level. Inspiring speeches were made
by honorable guests and the entire program was meticulously woven. Spreading awareness
about marginalized girls and women was the idea of the program which was truly
appreciated.
The assembly on ‘one billion rising’ was very knowledgeable. It emphasized on ‘Human
trafficking’ which served as an eye – opener. The Assembly was illustrated by a flash mob
dance along with a street play. It was very informative and enriching and encouraged us to
make a change. It instilled us with the knowledge of darker sections of our society of which
we were unaware. It indeed was very meticulously planned and was truly appreciated.
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Loreto Day School, Elliot Road was fortunate enough to attend Dental Care – An Oral
Care Medical Camp in schools, organized by Mrs. Mousri Singha, the director of Euphony.
The initiative was taken up by the Dabur Red Paste, the sponsor of the programme. The
programme has been organized with the help of their medical partner Woodland
Multispecialty Hospital Limited under the guidelines of Dr. Sucheta Mukherjee , the HOD
and Peclodontist of the same. The Dental Care group has advised some guidelines to be
followed if one wishes to keep dental problems away. The do’s are:
- Brush twice a day.
- Rinse your mouth after every meal.
- Replace toothbrush once every three months.
- Take your child for a dental check up once in 6 months.
- Brush twice a day.
The don’ts had the following under it:
- Don’t let your young child brush alone.
- Don’t give your child sugary, acidic drinks and sticky sugary food.
- Don’t ignore a child who complains of discomfort or toothache.
The JPIC group of Loreto Day School, Elliot Road, 2015 – 16. Was extremely happy to receive them and we eagerly await another such programme the coming year.
On the 8th of November, the members of the JPIC club had to perform a street play based on changing the grass root levels of our Indian society.
Our teacher in charge was Ms T.Sulaiman.
Our street play's name was Zephr- the Winds of Change.
The street play depicted the true scenario of beliefs, traditions and concept of the 21st century people.
It revealed the evils like superstitions, gender discrimination, corruption and backwardness of the people.
The street play helped us to make the common masses aware of the problems caused due to these
evils and how with unity we can solve these problems. It aimed at changing the present society
for the betterment of the nation.
On 27th September Elliot Road. Rainbow girls had attended a programme at Loreto. Bowbazar which was organised by the Cognizant team of volunteers. All the girls took part in the prelims. Our girls were selected for the following items:-
- Group Dance
- Solo Singing
- Solo Dance
- Dart Throwing
- Drawing
The programme took place the entire day, so the girls were treated to tiffin and lunch, the programme ended at 5pm.
On 10th. October, we had the finals of the Talhunt. 24 girls were accompanied by Mrs. Rita Lazarus and Sr. Anupa.
The girls were taken to Loreto Sealdah in the morning; from there we got into the bus and were taken to the Cognizant Office. We reached at 10am. We were given breakfast (puri, sabji and sweets).
The inauguration of the programme took place after breakfast. Our girls took part in all the events, they were the winners for the drama. The six girls received individual prizes, medals and a trophy.
18 schools participated in the Talhunt. We all had an enjoyable day; we were treated to lunch and snacks in the evening.
On the 13th of October, 2015, the middle school and the senior school were engaged in various activities, celebrating the International Day of the Girl Child organized by JPIC. All these events were preceded by an enriching assembly by them. While classes 6, 7 and 8 were performing their skits, classes 9 and 10 were busy making posters and class 11 and 12 used their creativity to make journals. The skit performances were judged by Ms.K.Chatterjee and Ms.R.Ireland. The poster making and journal making competitions had Mr.Nitai Biswas and Mrs.K.Chatterjee as judges respectively. This Inter-House competition left all the students of Loreto Day School, Elliot Road excited, eagerly waiting for another such day. The winners for the skit competition are, C.V. Raman (1st), S.C. Bose (2nd), Sarojini Naidu (3rd). The poster making competition for class 9 had S.C.Bose (1st), Mother Teresa (2nd) and Kalpana Chawla (3rd) and for class 10 Mother Teresa (1st), C.V.Raman (2nd) and Mary Ward (3rd) as winners. The winner s for the journal making competition for class 11 were Sarojini Naidu (1st), S.C.Bose (2nd) and Mary Ward (3rd) and for class 12 C.V.Raman and Mother Teresa (1st), Kalpana Chawla (2nd) and MaryWard and S.C.Bose (3rd).
On the 23rd and 24th of September the JPIC Group of Loreto Day School Elliot Road organized
an eye – check up campaign. The sight for kids was conducted by Lions Club who provided eye
– check up for girls up to class 10 including the Rainbow children. The Lions Club were kind
enough to provide children with vision power, with free spectacles and recommendation cards
for students who need further eye treatment. The genuine kindness of the social front deserves
serious appreciation.
On 30th September 2015, a few members of the JPIC club were selected for the self defence
workshop. Loreto House, Loreto Entally and Loreto Bowbazar were also present for the
workshop. The workshop started at 9:00 a.m. Mr. Dev Chakravarty and his assistant showed us
how to defend ourselves from different situations like air choke and head lock and how to break
free from wrist grabs. The programme ended at 12:20 p.m. It was a very enriching programme
for all of us.
We the students of Class X(I) went for their outreach programme on the 11th of July to “All Bengal Women’s Association.” We divided ourselves into two groups. One group went to the children’s section and other went to the elderly people. The entire programme proved to be very enriching for us. The elderly people sang along with us. We gad prepared a short programme for them which consisted of a dance & songs. We interacted with them & some of them shared their feelings with us. When we were leaving some had tears in their eyes. We asked them to bless us, which they did willingly. The second group that went to the children’s section enjoyed themselves immensely. We played with the children and songs with them. We had taken some gifts for both the children’s & elderly people.
On 25th April we, the girls of class VI-II went to visit all Bengal women’s Union. Through, there was an election in two locality’s, it was on responsibility to join this outreach Programme and help the old grant parents who are suffering from their household distresses and whose children left them forever at his old age home.
We were feeling very bad for the ones who did not get a peaceful life before their death. But whenever we asked they are happy staying there, only one answer I got was yes, everyone was happy, they learn all types of stitching, they have picnics and they are leading a happy life.
We showed our programme to them. They liked our dance, recitations and songs. We really liked attending the programme and interacting with them and having a lot of fun with them.
Class-VII (II)
On 9th May 2015 the girls of class XII-H had gone for an outreach program to Navanir- Chetla. We went at 10:00 am and spent approximately an hour with the senior citizens of Navanir. We also presented them with little gifts.
We had prepared a short prayer service and a song for them. It was a truly enriching experience. We learned the art of guying and we also experienced the joy that we brought to the faces of those people.
On Saturday 9th of may class 7-I had gone for an outreach Programme to Preimdam . Ale reached there with our parents at 9:15 and assembled. We had took some biscuits, towels and antiseptics with us a gift. When our teachers had arrived she took us inside to meet the physically and mentally disabled people. We distributed the biscuits among them. We met a sister/nun and gone her the other gifts. We interacted with them and I think they felt happy to see us and have someone to interact with them. Some of them asked us to come and visit them again. After that we sang some songs for them and danced. We would like to thank Sister Nirmala for guying us a chance to see the other phase of life.
We the students of class VII (II) visited Nirmala shishu Bhavan on 25th April 2015. We reached the venue at 9:00 am. The children are orphans and the nuns are the ones who take care of them like their parents. It was a different kind of experience. We are divided into two groups. One group visited the physically challenged children. The second group visited children of various age groups. The children were friendly and enjoyed our company. We sang nursery rhymes and action songs for them. We gave them personally toys, biscuits sweets and crayons. We also left a hamper of goodies for them. It was a memorable day in our lives as it was very enriching for us.
A few days back our class teacher Mrs. S. Bardhan Majumdar announced in class about the outreach program to st. Joseph’s old age home which was going to take place on 25th April 2015. Our class teacher told us to bring one packet of detergent and packet milk power. We packed it in a big box with wrapping paper for gifting it to them.
Our class teacher divided us into three groups according to our roll numbers. The first group was asked to perform a skit, the second group was asked to prepare a dance and the third group had to arrange for them. The first group prepare a skit on the “Six ages of Man” and also sang a song called “Oo grandma-grandpa”. the dance group prepared two dances for them one eastern and other one western. We planned to prepared three games for them which were not very difficult for them but at the same time interesting. In the fast game there was a basket and the old people had to through balls in the basket .The second game there four glasses and a pieces of paper in one of them .we we would mix all the glasses and they had to guess under 6which glass the paper was. In the third game we planned to give chits of paper to them in which some numbers were written, and we would drop two dices on the floor. Whoever got the same number as on the dice would match with the chits and get a gift.
On 25th April 2015 we went for the outreach programme to St. Joseph’s Little sister’s home. Our class teacher, Mrs S.B Majumder went with us. We were to pick and dropped by our parents. First when we got there, Sister Ann told us that the home started in 1882. After that we went to the first floor, Where we entertained the grandpa’s and the grandmas. We started the programme eastern dance first, followed by a skit which was called the “six ages of Man”. The skit showed infancy, childhood, youth, adulthood, old age and oblivion. A short prayer service was done followed by a song called “Oo grandma-grandpa”. After that a western dance was shown which was continued by different types of games. The games were Dice the Wise, Ball and the Bucket, Ball in the Cup, Coin to the Coin, and finally burning Candles. After finishing off we went to the second floor and did the same thing. Along with it we sang some songs. When it was almost 11:00, a sister took us to the ground floor and they showed some handicrafts which the people in the home had made. Those were very beautiful and creatively made also. So after we saw those we were taken to our parents by our class teacher. Our entire programme got over at 11.15 am.
We would like to thank our class teacher, and sister for giving us this opportunity to experience such a noble thing.
On 3rd August 2015 JPIC meeting was held at Loreto Day School Elliot road in the A V room. All the
Loreto schools from Kolkata attended the meeting and Mrs Sumita Biswas coordinator of JPIC conducted
the meeting.We were highly obliged to have Sister Sabrina and Sister A. Nirmala amidst us. The JPIC
office bearers (students) also attended the meeting. The agenda of the meeting were as follows:
International Day of Girl , Inter-Loreto Marathon,News letter,JPIC logo and song,
Sister Cecilia's mail, Lumiere. After the meeting the school arranged for some refreshments for the
teachers and students.
They say old age is not a disease but is strength and survivorship, triumph over
all kind of vicissitudes and disappointments, trials and illnesses. With this belief,
we the student of class XII-Commerce went to Navanir, an old age home at Chetla.
Our class teacher Miss D. Majumdar also accompanied us there. Our purpose of going
there was to spend some time with them and make them feel special. We had already
decided how we would spend our time with them. We planned a short programme for
them which constituted a short prayer service, a few games like Antakshari passing
the pillow and some ‘songs and dances were also performed. The inmates happily cooperated
and willingly came forward and sung songs. It showed that one does not grew old
till he himself wants to.
At the end of the programme, they appreciated us and very humbly took us all around
the place. They seemed very happy and it was an honor for us to have spent a Saturday
with them. The visit there made us realize that age is not a particularly interesting
subject. Anyone can grew old. All we have to do os live long enough. All in all,
it was a really enriching experience for all of us and we’ll always be thankful
to our Principal for this experience.
OUTREACH PROGRAMME – DAYADHAN
We visited Dayadhan on 21st September, 2013. We were acompained by Mrs. P. Quadra
and two parents of our classmates. We boarded a bus from Rippon Street to Nimtala.
In Dayadhan which is run be the Missionaries, there were sixty children. The sisters
of charity kept the place very clean and will organised. We played a few games and
recited some rhymes for them. Those children always always had a smile on their
faces though each child had something missing. We have everything but we still say,
”We don’t have that, we want that”. We would like to thank Sr. Nirmala for organising
this trip for us, where we learnt to count our blessings and be grateful to god.
OUTREACH PROGRAMME – TOLLYGUNGE OLD AGE HOME
On 21st September, we went for an outreach programme to Tollygunge Old Age Home
accompanied by Mrs. Roy. We all gathered in the school premises at 9:00 a.m. We
departed in two different cars arranged by one of our fellow-students, Adeeba.
We reached the venue around 10:00 a.m. and assembled in a big hall to present our
programme. We had an ice-breaking session with the inmates. There were about twenty-seven
of them. They appreciated the simplicity of our programme.The senior citizens were
full of life. Most of them sang songs and some of them danced. We played passing
the parcel which brought a smile to their faces. We sang a birthday song for a seventy-four
year old gentleman. It was the first time we enjoyed counting the numbers for his
74th birthday.
We never had such a good experience. When we saw the old people in the homes smiling,
we knew that our mission was accomplished. We left with heavy hearts but a feeling
of satisfaction that we had given meaning to the lives of the residents in the home.
OUTREACH PROGRAMME – ORPHANGE
On the 21st of September, 2013 a group of Class XI Humanities were taken to All
Bengal Women’s Union for an outreach programme. We were supposed to spend time with
the children who were orphans.
Though the kids were all of different age groups, they were eager, playful and friendly.
We started with a prayer and a song and it was fulfilling when after that we played
games with them.We rewarded the winners with little gifts which we had bought for
them. While we danced with them they showed us their talents.
This day was one of the best moments of our life. They were all happy and cheerful
with the little things they got. Their behaviour, their playfulness, their talents,
their smiles and everything about them left a huge impact on us, teaching us a lot.
We were lucky that we got an opportunity to have such an experience and look forward
for other such experience...........
OUTREACH PROGRAMME – OLD AGE HOME
On 21st of September, 2013, Saturday, the girls of Loreto Elliot Road of Class XI
Humanities paid a visit to “All Bengal Women’s Association”. We were happy to give
us our Saturday for some special people. We were accompanied by Ms. Handa and Ms.
Sulaiman.
The girls who attended to the aged were very touched. They welcomed us with a big
smile and a warm hug. We interacted with them and their responses were spontaneous
and warm. On hearing them speak of their problems, out problem seemed so petty.
We entertained them by Rabindra Sangeet. We helped them to settle their beds and
clothes as well. They asked us to come and visit them again. None of us wanted to
leave them but as we say ”All good things has to come to an end” so did this outreach
programme.
The best part of the outreach programme was when they all blessed us and hugged
us with tears in their eyes and said that we should “learn, earn and return”. This
should be our motto for life. We should always respect our parents and love them
and not leave them in old age homes when they need us the most.
We thank our Principal, the teachers who gave us such an opportunity to live with
“Best moment of our lives”.
- Sumaiya Ahmed XI (H)
OUTREACH PROGRAMME – SHISHU BHAWAN
On the 21st of September, 2013 the girls of Class IX went to Shishu Bhawan. The
girls were divided into two groups. The first group took breakfast for the children
while the second group took lunch for them. We put up a show for them which started
with a prayer dance to the song “Aguner Poroshmoni’. Nursery rhymes were played
on the guitar. The next item was aerobics to the song ”Jane Kyun”. A few songs and
hymns were sung as well. The show concluded with a dance on the song sadda dil vi
tu. The children were very happy to watch us perform and we decided to call them
to dance with us.
When we were about to leave they sang a song for us.This made us realize that how
lucky we are to have everything.
THE DERRICK HINNES MEMORIAL QUIZ
On the 3rd of May, Saturday, a few students of the school, accompanied by two teachers,
had attended the Derrick Hinnes Memorial Quiz competition at Christ the King, church,
Park circus. The quiz was conducted in the church itself. The participating schools
could send two teams of four members each including at least one member of the Anglo-Indian
community. There were around six to seven participating schools along with other
teams from the church as well as a professional quiz team. The teams were registered
& finally at about 10am the preliminary round commenced.
Quiz master, Andrew Scolt, a member of the Derek O’Brien association of quizzing,
was a very jolly personality who guided us through the twenty questions of the preliminary
round assuring us after every few minutes that the questions would be easy.
After the preliminary round, we had a short break after which results were declared.
One of the team from our school qualifies as we lost in tie-breaker round.
Overall the quiz was interesting, fun & helped us to gain experience.
UPASYA BHOWAL
CLASS – XI - HUMANITIES
“The whole secret of existence is to have no fear. Never fear what will become of
you, depend on no one. Only the moment you reject all help you are freed.”- Swami
Vivekananda
This is what an elderly woman of 63yrs said to me on Saturday when we visited “All
Bengal Women Association”. All Bengal Women Association is a welfare home which
is divided into two sections, one for the orphans and second, the old age home.
As we assembled on the spot at 11:00 am, we were immediately divided into two groups,
the orphanage, the old age home. My group visited the old age home first. It was
an emotional experience to see a roomful of grandmothers waiting to welcome us with
open arms.
When I sat beside one of them and asked, ‘Don’t you feel bad to stay here without
your family?’, to that she quoted words of Swami Vivekananda. She said she has no
fear of loosing anything-a practical lesson of life which any textbook has failed
to teach me in these 18 yrs of my life. It was truly amazing to hear that they enjoy
their daily chores which include works like cutting vegetables to doing yoga. One
of them showed us a handmade handkerchief which was nothing short of tailor-made.
All of them were bubbling like children sitting around us & narrating their experiences.
They told us how they went out during durga puja visiting pandals of north and south
Calcutta places like Dakshineswar and Kalighat. Their faces lit up with joy while
sharing their plan of going to Shantiniketan this December. Some of them asked us
about the daily soaps whereas some enjoyed songs sung by few of my friends. It was
difficult for me to stop crying when one of them spoke of her grandchild. After
hearing them it was evident that they have created a world of their own inside,
enjoying themselves reading books and listening to hear music. Before leaving all
of them blessed us and wished luck for our final exams.
The next segment was one visit to see the children of the orphanage. They were waiting
for us with broad smiles. The kids were eager to be with us. It appears if we were
one of their own relatives. After the permission to play and interact with kids
was granted, we gathered around them, asked their name and introduce ourselves.
We then proceeded to play a few games with them. Though some of them were reluctant
to join us in the beginning but after a while they too joined in. All of them were
elated to receive biscuits from us. Playing with them, reminded me of my childhood
days. One child among them requested some of us to tell her a story. We clicked
pictures on the screen.
We really didn’t feel like leaving them behind. It was an unforgettable trip. The
eyes, the smiles of the children will li9nger with us for a long time. We were overwhelmed.
I would like to thank Sister for giving us an opportunity to spend the day differently
and for showing us a totally different picture of life.
On the 15th of November, 2014, we the girls of class X(2) visited Shishu Bhavan
as a part of our outreach program. We reached the place at 8:45am. We had taken
snacks for the children. Some of us visited the children and entertained them. The
food committee girls served snacks to the children. The group that visited the handicapped
children was amazed to see the way the volunteers present, nursed those children
with love and care. Soon, we found ourselves playing with the children, singing,
dancing with them and teaching them a few nursery rhymes. We also visited a section
where children below the age of one were kept. We were not allowed to play with
them on health grounds. We also invited their school and had fun there. While coming
back we were really glad that we would bring a smile on their face. It had been
a truly enriching experience. They had certainly touched our hearts and we hope
that we had able to reach out to them. It was evident that the children were delighted
with our company just as we were happy with them.
On 23rd of August the students of class V sec II had gone for an outreach programme
to St. Joseph’s Old age Home. Twenty-two girls were taken. A short programme consisting
of hymns, a skit and a choral recitation was prepared. Few games were played with
the inmates of the home.
The experience has been a fruitful one and the students learnt a lot through their
activity.
The student of class V sec-(i) visited All Bengal Women, old aged homes on 14 and 15th November 2014. The student went in two groups of 22 girls each to visit the 26 inmates residing there. They sang songs, recited poems, put up a short skit and a mime for them. Each student interacted personally with the elderly ladies. The inmates were extremely happy and conversed enthusiastically with the students. The students handed over some useful articles for their use like soap, tea leaves, detergent, milk powder, and biscuits. It was enriching experience for the student as well. When the time came to depart the students were very happy to receive the blessings from them. The inmates requested the students to visit them again. These two days were indeed a memorable and heartwarming experience for all the students.
On 14th August, 2014, the senior division of Loreto Day School, Elliot Road, Celebrated
Independence day keeping in mind the motto, “ The only freedom which deserves the
name is that of pursuing our own good in our own way, so long as we do not attempt
to derive others of theirs or impede their efforts to obtain it.”
The show started off with a prayer service, followed by a presentation which depicted
the achievements of India in various fields in her 68th year of Independence. Two
Short plays were showcased on freedom struggle. One of the play was based on the
courage of Maatongini Hazra. This was captivating and the audience applauded delightfully.
The Indian Classic Dance captivated the audience, Halima the president of the school
body, gave a speech on Independence and its importance. The programme ended with
the singing of the Indian National Anthem.
Naina Borneo
XII H
On the 10th of October, 2014 the students of Class 10 ( I ) came to school at 7:30
am and started with our make-up for the event that we were all looking forward to.
We were to go for our outreach programme to The Oral School for Deaf Children. The
students were divided into two slots. One slot was for a mime show and the other
was responsible for dancing. We interacted with 36 children over there with gay
abandon. They were immensely happy to see us.
The show started with an introductory dance and then followed the mime show. We
learnt a new way of showing appreciation and reciprocated in the same manner.
The last segment of our one hour programme wS the dance recital. - two Indian dances
with the sole western dance in the middle.
Right before we left, we gave each of them a pencil case with stationary during
which we learnt their way of saying thank you. At the end,two students namely Azgari
and Supriya came up to speak and thanked us. They also gleefully expressed that
they loved the western dance, Margaret's performance and the Oblivion stage of the
mime show of the Seven Stages of Man.
We were also told by their teachers that they really liked this initiative of ours
and that they look forward for us to come back again.For them , it was the first
time ever that a school had visited them and made their children so happy with our
interaction and performance. What made our day is when they expressed a strong desire
to visit our school and perform for us.
We took a look around their school and saw the magnificent creative work displayed
in the collages that they put up. That amazed each one of us and we felt that this
new art was definitely worth trying and we came back so much richer with this experience.
Our staying back in school during exams and practice paid such rich dividends that
it we simply cannot put it in words. The complete satisfaction that we derived seeing
the faces of the 36 students and their admiration for us humbled us.
It was then that we realized that actions surely speak louder than words and we
couldn't thank Sr. Nirmala and the teachers enough for motivating us and channelising
our energies in such a productive way. The words of the Loreto Holiday Hymn kept
coming back to us over and over again.....it was truly a phenomenal experience .
Just giving up half a day during our vacations was nothing as compared to the complete
satisfaction that we got and we will cherish this day and we will keep thanking
God for blessing us with all the gifts that He has bestowed upon us.
Written by Amreen Ahmed , Vice Head Girl
Class X (I) 2014 batch
On 8th August, 2015 the YCS members of Loreto Day School, Elliot Road had gone on a visit to “Mother House”. The catholic girls of classes IX & X had participated in this event. Our teacher, Mrs.A.Rocha had accompanied us. We prepared a short prayer service. The prayers and the gospel passage was given to us by our President and Vice President of the cell. A few petitions were read keeping the intentions of the group in mind, especially the half yearly exams which are round the corner. The program of praying at the tomb ended with the recitation of the rosary. This was offered for the well-being of the Principal, staff and students.
On the 30th of January, 2014 the Senior School celebrated the Feast Day of Mary Ward with a Panel Discussion. The Chief Guest for the day was Sr. Mary D’Souza. The topic for the discussion was, “India is free, her women are not” – a very relevant and significant issue in today’s context.
The twelve panellists, our very own students, openly shared their views both some agreeing and some disagreeing with the subject. The panellists who spoke for the subject discussed about the lack of freedom Indian Women have even today. They spoke about issues relating to Rape, Prostitution, Dowry death, Female infanticide and girl – child abuse giving us statistics which left us appalled.
But, every coin has two sides and when the panellists shared their views disagreeing with the topic, we saw a ray of hope. One speaker confidently said that, women are not equal to men rather, they are better. Others spoke about the marvellous achievements Indian women have made in various fields. Whether it is Chandni Gautam, the first woman taxi driver in India or Sarla Thakar, the first Indian woman to get a Pilot’s license, you have them everywhere. Now the phrase “male-oriented jobs” is a misnomer. Looking at he positive side of the issue we felt relieved. Teachers also actively participated in the discussion.
It was a wonderful experience for students and teachers alike. Everyone wanted to share their views and the teachers were no less enthusiastic.
- Zainab Udaipurwala
Class – XI (Humanities)
On 16th November, 2013 a walk was initiated by Loreto Day School, Elliot Road in
order to sensitise the society about the various atrocities inflicted upon women
in society.
The walk which began from the school premises, covered areas in the vicinity. It
was interspersed with the staging of the street play which showcased evils prevalent
in society such as dowry demands, female foeticide and domestic violence. The girls
also carried posters and banners to bring home the severity of the problem to the
people.
This walk that was organised was with a difference as we have parents who volunteered
to walk with us to show solidarity.
OUTREACH PROGRAMME – DAYADHAN
We visited Dayadhan on 21st September, 2013. We were acompained by Mrs. P. Quadra
and two parents of our classmates. We boarded a bus from Rippon Street to Nimtala.
In Dayadhan which is run be the Missionaries, there were sixty children. The sisters
of charity kept the place very clean and will organised. We played a few games and
recited some rhymes for them. Those children always always had a smile on their
faces though each child had something missing. We have everything but we still say,
”We don’t have that, we want that”. We would like to thank Sr. Nirmala for organising
this trip for us, where we learnt to count our blessings and be grateful to god.
OUTREACH PROGRAMME – TOLLYGUNGE OLD AGE HOME
On 21st September, we went for an outreach programme to Tollygunge Old Age Home
accompanied by Mrs. Roy. We all gathered in the school premises at 9:00 a.m. We
departed in two different cars arranged by one of our fellow-students, Adeeba.
We reached the venue around 10:00 a.m. and assembled in a big hall to present our
programme. We had an ice-breaking session with the inmates. There were about twenty-seven
of them. They appreciated the simplicity of our programme.The senior citizens were
full of life. Most of them sang songs and some of them danced. We played passing
the parcel which brought a smile to their faces. We sang a birthday song for a seventy-four
year old gentleman. It was the first time we enjoyed counting the numbers for his
74th birthday.
We never had such a good experience. When we saw the old people in the homes smiling,
we knew that our mission was accomplished. We left with heavy hearts but a feeling
of satisfaction that we had given meaning to the lives of the residents in the home.
OUTREACH PROGRAMME – ORPHANGE
On the 21st of September, 2013 a group of Class XI Humanities were taken to All
Bengal Women’s Union for an outreach programme. We were supposed to spend time with
the children who were orphans.
Though the kids were all of different age groups, they were eager, playful and friendly.
We started with a prayer and a song and it was fulfilling when after that we played
games with them.We rewarded the winners with little gifts which we had bought for
them. While we danced with them they showed us their talents.
This day was one of the best moments of our life. They were all happy and cheerful
with the little things they got. Their behaviour, their playfulness, their talents,
their smiles and everything about them left a huge impact on us, teaching us a lot.
We were lucky that we got an opportunity to have such an experience and look forward
for other such experience...........
OUTREACH PROGRAMME – OLD AGE HOME
On 21st of September, 2013, Saturday, the girls of Loreto Elliot Road of Class XI
Humanities paid a visit to “All Bengal Women’s Association”. We were happy to give
us our Saturday for some special people. We were accompanied by Ms. Handa and Ms.
Sulaiman.
The girls who attended to the aged were very touched. They welcomed us with a big
smile and a warm hug. We interacted with them and their responses were spontaneous
and warm. On hearing them speak of their problems, out problem seemed so petty.
We entertained them by Rabindra Sangeet. We helped them to settle their beds and
clothes as well. They asked us to come and visit them again. None of us wanted to
leave them but as we say ”All good things has to come to an end” so did this outreach
programme.
The best part of the outreach programme was when they all blessed us and hugged
us with tears in their eyes and said that we should “learn, earn and return”. This
should be our motto for life. We should always respect our parents and love them
and not leave them in old age homes when they need us the most.
We thank our Principal, the teachers who gave us such an opportunity to live with
“Best moment of our lives”.
- Sumaiya Ahmed XI (H)
OUTREACH PROGRAMME – SHISHU BHAWAN
On the 21st of September, 2013 the girls of Class IX went to Shishu Bhawan. The
girls were divided into two groups. The first group took breakfast for the children
while the second group took lunch for them. We put up a show for them which started
with a prayer dance to the song “Aguner Poroshmoni’. Nursery rhymes were played
on the guitar. The next item was aerobics to the song ”Jane Kyun”. A few songs and
hymns were sung as well. The show concluded with a dance on the song sadda dil vi
tu. The children were very happy to watch us perform and we decided to call them
to dance with us.
When we were about to leave they sang a song for us.This made us realize that how
lucky we are to have everything.
The students of Loreto Day School, Elliot Rood, staged an adaptation of Rabindranath
Tagore’s ‘Chandalika’. A dance drama replete with music and rhythm, portraying the
soul-stirring story of a young girl, shunned by society, to whom life is an agonized
struggle and existence a burden, and who is surprisingly honoured by the young monk,
Anando after which she finds her ‘self awakening’ or ‘Nabojagaran’.
The students of the Middle decided to perform this particular gem of Tagore’s because
time and again in all ages and societies and countries – it may be caste, class,
wealth, money or education that creates barriers between two human beings that breaks
social bondage destroying human relationships. Only love can heal this-restore a
parity and create a sense of bonding.
At the end of the play, Prokriti’s questions are answered, she tells her mother
“I feel baptised. I am aware of myself now. I know what freedom tastes like.” She
realizes that she is unique and worthy because she is a child of God !
Through the play we wanted our audience to introspect their lives and awaken their
spirits and lead their souls to a self realization and that would be ‘their Nabojagaran’,
the ‘Nabojagoran’ of our society, our country and the whole world.
On 26th June, we the class 11s had an orientation on drug abuse. It was conducted
by Mr.Amit Chatterjee. The orientation began at around 2:40 pm. and ended at about
4:00pm.
We learned a lot of interesting things about drugs and its symptoms. First of all
we were reminded that today being the 26th of June, is celebrated as The International
Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
Mr Chatterjee told us that there are three categories of drugs and also stated their
effects. The three types of drugs are: stimulant, depressant and hallucinogen.
In general he said that drugs affect our central nervous system, to be precise,
it controls our brain and makes it completely dependent on drugs.
Stimulants make the brain respond too fast and though it seems as a boon but its
flip side is that it makes the brain so dependent on the drug that the brain becomes
unable to do even what it previously could do without the drug.
Depressants, as the name suggest, depresses its consumer and even makes them inactive.
Hallucinogens makes the addict hallucinate things which are at the back of his/her
mind but not happening in reality.
To emphasis on the ill effects of drugs he told us some of his cases in which young
boys/girls due to bad influence get addicted to drugs and to support their new habit
indulge into stealing, pick pocketing and other illegal activities.
Though it was an orientation of an hour's duration it seemed to be too short for
the vast amount of information he had to share with us.
The reality of his case studies as an IPS officer dealing with this department left
us alarmed and petrified. It was hard to imagine that boys/girls of our age were
at that moment involved in such hazardous activity.
Before we ended, we had a quick question/ answer session through which he cleared
all our doubts.
This session in every way made us realize all the ruinous effects of drug and has
certainly portrayed this addiction as the easiest way for self-destruction.
This talk, moreover held on this day made it more appropriate and we don't have
enough words of gratitude for Mr Amit Chatterjee who took out precious time from
his busy schedule for this and that too on a Day his department holds a series of
awareness programmes in the city.
We thank Sr Nirmala for organizing this talk.
Written by Shafaque Rahman
Class XI (H)
On Earth Day 22nd of April, students from our school attended the earth day celebration
organized by The Birla Industrial & Technological Institute accompanied by Mrs.
Partridge.
We assembled there at 10 am. The event began at 10:30 am as scheduled. In the beginning
we attended an interactive session with five resource people from big industries.
Houses gave us concrete ideas about how to keep urban Kolkata green & gave us examples
where in many different regions these were applied. We were informed about special
bacteria which were being created for the well being of our state. It was an interesting
session where we shared our ideas and these are more aware. After this session,
the participants for drawing, painting & craft were sent out for their respective
events. The second session we attended was about GPRS & navigation, map marking
& satellite workings. This one hour session was very informative & detailed. It
gave us the ground reality. The last event was the open house quiz on Mother’s Earth.
We were shown pictures & videos & then we were asked questions.
Most of the prizes were won by our students and hence we were elated. We thank Sr.
Nirmala for giving us the opportunity to take part & interact & thus opening new
windows of growth for us.
SUMEDHA JAISWAL
CLASS - X
Date: 14.05.2014
Venue: Junior School Hall
In keeping with the election fervor this month, the school decided to hold a Mock
Parliament to not only educate the students regarding the proceedings of the Indian
Parliamentary Democracy, but also sensitize them to the pressing needs of the society.
The Mock Parliament which was presented before students from classes VI to XII had
the plus two section actively participating in the Programme. Issues such as food
scarcity in the wake of the El Nino phenomenon, wastage of power by sodium vapor
street lamps and lack of ramps in polling both for handicapped voters, were also
dealt with. The sensitive issue of Euthanasia was also breached upon and the audience
also expressed their opinion about the same.
This session though mostly educative was inter-aspersed with elements of wit and
humor. It is thus a step in our endeavor to shape the future citizens of society
who will in times to come present a model parliament, a model society to the world.
Ms. SHRUTI HANDA
(Teacher)
As has been the tradition for the past few years, the Vanmahotsav festival-2014
was celebrated by the Junior School Children on 14th July, 2014.
It began with a prayer service which was followed by an introduction on Vanmahotsav.
A dance was performed by class V, shortly followed by a skit by class IV. Saplings
were planted in pots which were followed by the Earth dance.
The principal spoke to the children about adopting a tree to build a bond with nature.
She congratulated the students and teachers for putting up the Vanmahotsav programme.
Our visitors, students from U.K. were invited to tie rakhi around the tress along
with the principal and the teachers. The T.T.C students’ teachers from Loreto House
also viewed and enjoyed the programme. It was a learning experience for them.
Congratulations to Shay-Iyne (Announcer), Ishita Tirkey(Reader), Jessica Rao(Singer)
for their wonderful performance.
We, the girls of Class IX, Section (ii) had an excellent opportunity to go for an Outreach program on 11th April, 2015 to The Tollygunge Homes. This Senior Citizen home is a collection of beautiful row of houses with rooms that are in the form of cottages, overlooking a pond.
As we entered the big hall we found all the grandmas and grandpas waiting for us seated on their respective chairs. As planned, after wishing them we began with the prayer service. with the lighting of the candles, we inaugurated the programme. After the peaceful and soothing words of wisdom and prayer, some of us who are living with grandparents at home, shared our experiences. It was an interesting session. Then we rendered three beautiful songs where our ringing voices brought about a smile on the faces of our elderly friends. This was followed by the singing of the hymns. While we were singing the hymns, we had the inmates join us for the renditions.
Now, it was time for us to interact with them. So, many of us went to their tables and shared our thoughts, after which we went about personally gifting them with our token of love. Some girls from our class put up a dance performance to a song which expresses fun and laughter of the young as we believe that old age is second childhood. We grow up physically, but our heart never forgets the pure fun of childhood. The dance brought a grin on the old, wrinkled faces. They laughed and enjoyed it thoroughly. The dance recital was followed by a group, elocuting of a beautiful poem where we all expressed our love for them.
Soon, the environment turned musical, girls singing. Suddenly many were on the dance floor and soon we were doing the same. There was no hesitation, the energy and vitality was driving all of us. Then came up the inspiring reading and a few hymns, with two girls taking a lead to sing other songs. The musical melody brought about energy. One of them, danced so rhythmically and beautifully to our songs that it appeared that he was back to his good old young days.
Now, we were the ones to get surprised. Each of us got an eclair from them. To us, it was the most magical moment and all of us counted this as their blessings. Just before we finally bid adieu, we gifted the Homes with three handmade posters and a card expressing our joys and gratitude. The final thank you speech was of appreciation and motivation and how inspired we were.
The time we spent there was worth millions. Sometimes, the glitches we made and the manner in which we damaged control them, taught us to be alert. It were these imperfections that made everything perfect in the end. We were content, grateful, touched and humbled that we began the new academic session on such a note.
We are thankful to Sister Nirmala and our dear Class Teacher Mrs. N. Bhattacharjee for giving us an opportunity to have such a memorable, enriching and heart touching experience. We look forward earnestly for many more of such chances and we also hope that we remain imperfect so that we can become perfect some day.
Sristi Banerjee.
Class 9 (ii)
On the 2nd of December t5he students of Class II sections (i) and (ii) visited the Birla Industrial and Technological Museum. The children were dropped at the venue at 9:30 am. The children viewed the Science and the Children’s Gallery.
Thereafter they watched a 3D movie “Great Wall of China”. It was a thrilling experience for them. The children also visited the Television Room where they were shown the techniques used in television programmes. It was interesting for the children to watch their friends flying on the magic carpet on a television screen. The Bubble Show conducted by Mr. Tarun Das was amazing and the children thoroughly enjoyed his performance. They were picked by their parents at 1 pm. It was a great learning experience for the children.
On the 17th of January class 9 went to Victoria Memorial to watch an exhibition on Samuel Daird’s artwork on Calcutta and Calcutta Gallery. These were various paintings depicting the life of the Indians under British rule, the various structures built by the British in Calcutta. There were statues of Queen Victoria, Lord Clive, Dalhousie. We also saw canyons, swords and armors of those days. We got a lot of information on the Battle of Plassey and the Mughal kings. All over it was a very pleasant and learning experience. We thank Sr. Nirmala, our class teachers and every other person who gave us this opportunity and let us have this wonderful experience.
The girls of class XI went to Dayadan which is a house for abandoned and deserted children on the 23rd of January 2015. Mother Teresa’s dream and ray of hope is seen and felt here – to do for the least was her mission. The outreach program was an eye-opener for the girls who realized how blessed they are to have parents who stand by them irrespective of their drawbacks. The girls interacted with the children there through action songs and dances. Many of our students cried when they saw children having severe disabilities smiling at them through all their pain and suffering. Their trusting faces made the hour spent in Dayadan one of quality and not of quantity- a time of imparting joy and hope to the hopeless, to children rejected by their very own parents. A word of appreciation must be said for the Missionaries of Charity who have given a new life to these children who would never have survived without these sisters’ help and dedication.
We, the girls of Class IX, Section (ii) had an excellent opportunity to go for an Outreach program on 11th April, 2015 to The Tollygunge Homes. This Senior Citizen home is a collection of beautiful row of houses with rooms that are in the form of cottages, overlooking a pond.
As we entered the big hall we found all the grandmas and grandpas waiting for us seated on their respective chairs. As planned, after wishing them we began with the prayer service. with the lighting of the candles, we inaugurated the programme. After the peaceful and soothing words of wisdom and prayer, some of us who are living with grandparents at home, shared our experiences. It was an interesting session. Then we rendered three beautiful songs where our ringing voices brought about a smile on the faces of our elderly friends. This was followed by the singing of the hymns. While we were singing the hymns, we had the inmates join us for the renditions.
Now, it was time for us to interact with them. So, many of us went to their tables and shared our thoughts, after which we went about personally gifting them with our token of love. Some girls from our class put up a dance performance to a song which expresses fun and laughter of the young as we believe that old age is second childhood. We grow up physically, but our heart never forgets the pure fun of childhood. The dance brought a grin on the old, wrinkled faces. They laughed and enjoyed it thoroughly. The dance recital was followed by a group, elocuting of a beautiful poem where we all expressed our love for them.
Soon, the environment turned musical, girls singing. Suddenly many were on the dance floor and soon we were doing the same. There was no hesitation, the energy and vitality was driving all of us. Then came up the inspiring reading and a few hymns, with two girls taking a lead to sing other songs. The musical melody brought about energy. One of them, danced so rhythmically and beautifully to our songs that it appeared that he was back to his good old young days.
Now, we were the ones to get surprised. Each of us got an eclair from them. To us, it was the most magical moment and all of us counted this as their blessings. Just before we finally bid adieu, we gifted the Homes with three handmade posters and a card expressing our joys and gratitude. The final thank you speech was of appreciation and motivation and how inspired we were.
The time we spent there was worth millions. Sometimes, the glitches we made and the manner in which we damaged control them, taught us to be alert. It were these imperfections that made everything perfect in the end. We were content, grateful, touched and humbled that we began the new academic session on such a note.
We are thankful to Sister Nirmala and our dear Class Teacher Mrs. N. Bhattacharjee for giving us an opportunity to have such a memorable, enriching and heart touching experience. We look forward earnestly for many more of such chances and we also hope that we remain imperfect so that we can become perfect some day.
Sristi Banerjee.
Class 9 (ii)
On 21st January,2015 some students from classes VI, VII, VIII and IX visited Birla Institute of Technology with Mrs. J.Banerjee.
The students viewed the space science and aviation exhibition. After the exhibition students were taken to an open lawn where the flight of a miniature helicopter was demonstrated. From there, the students were taken for a 3D show on the Great Wall of China after which they saw various experiments with fire. Lastly we visited the Mathematics in the fire-y-tale which conveyed the message “Know fire for no fire”.
OUTREACH PROGRAM OF CLASS VI – i AT ST. JOSEPH’S LITTLE SISTER’S HOME
2, A.J.C. BOSE ROAD, KOLKATA – 700020
DATE: 25.04.15 TIME: 9.15 a.m. TO 11.15 a.m.
A few days back our class teacher Mrs S. Bardhan Mazumdar announced in class about the outreach program to St Joseph's old age home which was going to take place on 25th April 2015. Our class teacher told us to bring one packet of detergent @ Rs.10/, and one packet milk powder @ Rs.10/. We packed it in a big box with wrapping paper for gifting it to them.
Our class teacher divided us into three groups according to our roll numbers. The first group was asked to perform a skit, the second group was asked to prepare a dance and the third group had to arrange games for them. The first group prepared a skit on the ‘Six ages of Man’ and also sang a song called, "Oo grandma-grandpa.” The dance group prepared two dances for them one eastern and the other one western. We divided our groups into two parts, so that we can arrange more games for them and our work would become easier. Whenever we got extra time in class our class teacher allowed us to discuss about the outreach program. In the discussion everyone gave their opinion and suggestions. After much discussion we planned to prepare three games for them which were not very difficult for them but at the same time interesting. In the first game there was a basket and the old people had to throw balls in the basket. Whenever the ball would go in the basket they would like in a gift. The second game was a little different one, it was all about guessing. In that game there were four glasses and a piece of paper in one of them. We would mix all the glasses and they had to guess under which glass the paper was. In the third game we planned to give chits of paper to them in which some numbers were written, and we would drop two dices on the floor. Whoever got the same number as on the dice would match with the chits and get a gift. After that we planned who will do what and everyone was given their duties. We also discussed what we are going to bring for them. After discussion we went to our class teacher to tell about our plan the other groups were also discussing their plans with her. We told her about our plan, she was happy with our plan. She told us what kind of gifts we can give them. We got many new ideas from her. Many times she took our practice. Every day one period was given to us for rehearsal. We also packed our gifts which we were going to be used for the games. On the last day, i.e. on 24th April’15, our class teacher took a last practice from all the groups and we were absolutely ready for the outreach program. We were very excited about it. We also received an e-care message about the same.
On 25th of April, 2015 we went for the outreach programme to St. Joseph’s Little Sister’s Home. Our class teacher, Mrs S. B Mazumdar went with us. We were to pick and dropped by our parents. First when we got there, Sister Ann told us that the home started in 1882. After that we went to the first floor, where we entertained the grandpa’s and then grandmas. We started the programme with an eastern dance first, followed by a skit which was called the ‘Six Ages of Man’. The skit showed infancy, childhood, youth, adulthood, old age and oblivion. A short Prayer service was done followed by a song called ‘Oo grandma and grandpa..’ . After that a western dance was shown which was continued by different types of games. The games were Dice the Wise, Ball and the Bucket, Ball in the cup, Coin to the Coin and finally burning candles. After finishing off we went to the second floor and did the same thing. Along with it we sang some songs. When it was almost 11:00, a sister took us to the ground floor and they showed some handicrafts which the people in the home had made. Those were very beautiful and creatively made also. So after we saw those we were taken to our parents by our class teacher. Our entire programme got over at 11.15a.m.
We would like to thank our class teacher, and sister for giving us this opportunity to experience such a noble thing.