Growing up: My Journey to Middle School

 

My name is Aadhvan Sharma, and I am in Class V B. I started my journey at The Mānn School in Pre-school. I have spent seven wonderful years in the Primary School.

I still remember my first day when my parents brought me to school. I was a little nervous, but my first teacher, Narinder Ma’am, welcomed me with a warm smile. That made me feel happy and comfortable. Since then, many teachers have taught me with love and care. I respect and thank all of them because they are the ones who laid the foundation of my education. They helped me learn and grow.

I have many special memories from Primary School. I remember the first time I became the monitor in Class III. I also felt very proud whenever I got a medal for standing first in class. One of the most special moments was saying the pledge in our last Primary School morning assembly.

I also share a special bond with our Headmistress, Dr Nidhi Dewan. I am very thankful to her for giving me the chance to become the Primary School Vice-Captain (Boys). She always encouraged me to do my best.

On 28 February 2026, we had our Graduation Ceremony. That day, I realised that I would soon be moving to Middle School. I had mixed feelings. I felt sad because I would miss my teachers, friends, and all the lovely memories. My Primary School feels like my second home.

At the same time, I am also excited to enter Middle School. I will meet new teachers, learn new subjects, and make new friends. I know it may be a little challenging, but I am ready for it.

Now I understand that growing up means accepting changes and moving forward in life. I am ready to start this new journey with confidence and a smile.

My Boarding School Journey: Learning to Be Independent

My name is Rudra Prakash, and I study in Class 5B. I am a boarding student living in Tulip Home at The Mānn School. Today, I want to share my experience about how boarding school has helped shape my character and changed my life.

I was scared before joining the school as I relied on my parents for everything. But I want to admit that our school has changed me completely. Now I have become independent, confident, creative and always eager to participate in co-curricular activities enthusiastically.

Living away from home requires us to manage our daily routines right from personal hygiene to making our bed or organising our things in the cupboards. One of the most interesting parts of boarding school is meeting students from different parts of India and even other countries. Living together with students from diverse backgrounds helps us learn about different cultures, traditions, and ideas.

Sometimes, boarding life also brings challenges, such as academic pressure, small disagreements with friends, or adjusting to a new environment. But these experiences make us stronger. We learn how to solve problems, stay calm, and support one another.

Boarding school also gives us the freedom to explore our interests. I now participate enthusiastically in many co-curricular activities, which has helped me become more creative and confident. As a result, my teachers considered my qualities suitable for the post of ‘Primary School- Captain (Boys)’.

In my opinion, my journey in our boarding school has taught me many valuable lessons, and I believe it is truly helping me grow into a better and stronger person.

My Memorable First Assembly

 

My first assembly in the senior school was a very special and memorable day for me. I was excited but also a little nervous because it was my first time speaking in front of senior students. My heart was beating fast, but I really wanted to do my best. I had also practised my lines many times at home and in school to prepare myself well. My parents and teachers encouraged me, which gave me more confidence.

That day, I woke up early and got ready for school. I revised my script once again before leaving home. However, I got a little late and was worried that I might miss the assembly. I hurried to school and felt very relieved when I reached on time.

The theme of the assembly was “Namami Gange,” which was about saving and respecting our holy river Ganga. It was an important and meaningful topic. I was given the responsibility of comparing the assembly. When I went on the stage, my hands were shaking and I felt nervous, but soon I took a deep breath, smiled, became confident, and spoke clearly.

As the assembly went on, I started enjoying myself on the stage. Seeing everyone listening carefully made me feel happy and proud. I learned that confidence grows when we face our fears and believe in ourselves.

After the assembly, the Headmaster Sir and other teachers appreciated me for being confident. Their kind and encouraging words made me feel very proud and happy. My friends also smiled at me and congratulated me, which made the day even more special. When I returned to my class, I felt relaxed and satisfied.

I am really thankful to my teachers for preparing me and giving me this wonderful opportunity. This assembly taught me to be brave and believe in myself. It will always remain a beautiful and unforgettable memory for me.

— Vanya Chahal

Class -VI

Dayanand House

My Journey as the Horse-Riding Captain

My journey to becoming the Horse-Riding Captain began with my deep love for horses and my eagerness to learn. The more I rode, the more my passion grew. I still remember the day I came to this school for admission. I was very excited when I saw the horses, and that was one of the main reasons I chose this school. At that time, I never imagined that I would one day become the Horse-Riding Captain.

While learning to ride, I fell many times, but I never gave up. Each time I fell, I got up quickly and tried again. Horse riding is one of the greatest achievements of my school life at The Mānn School. Although I started riding only after joining this school, with the guidance of our teacher, Bharat Sir, I became a confident rider within just two years. Riding helped me build confidence and made me feel free and relaxed.

After nearly five years, I became the first girl to participate in the Annual Horse Show and take part in show jumping. Even before I realised it, I had started motivating my juniors to try horse riding, cantering and jumping. Seeing them gain confidence and show the same enthusiasm that I once had made me feel proud to be their captain.

As a result of my efforts and dedication, I was awarded Best Rider of the Year 2025–26, an honour I will cherish forever. Horse riding may seem scary at first, but once you learn it, it becomes a source of pride and joy. The true success of my journey lies in knowing that my perseverance, discipline and love for riding made my parents proud. Their faith in me turns every fall into a lesson and every victory into a responsibility to keep growing.

— C Lalremfeli

(Buddha House and Horse-Riding Captain)

AFTER MY CLASS XII

 

Right now, being in Class 12, feels like standing at the edge of something big. Every day revolves around books, notes, and revision plans, and the pressure of board exams is always at the back of my mind. Some days are exhausting, filled with self-doubt and late-night study sessions. Other days, I feel confident and motivated, reminding myself that this struggle is temporary and each ounce of effort is contributing to something big.

What keeps me going is the thought that school life is finally coming to an end. After spending so many years following routines, bells, and rules, the idea of moving on feels both scary and exciting, so much so that it can be hard to fathom at times. Board exam is not just about marks for me; it represents growth, efforts, and the courage to step into a new phase of life.

The thought of college life fills me with excitement with an underlying feeling of nervousness, which is quite natural. I look forward to meeting new people, learning independently, discovering who I really am and take a leap towards my goal in life. College feels like a place where experiences matter as much as academics. For now, I am giving my best to ace these exams, knowing that every page I study is bringing me closer to a future full of freedom, learning, and unforgettable moments. The mere thought of bidding adieu to Alma mater sends chills down my spine, hence I would never  like to miss any opportunity to revisit the nostalgic memory lanes of my dear Alma mater, The Mann School.

-by

Aditya Daksh

Student Editor (Dept. of Science)

Class XII

Vyas House

Swimming: Built by the Water

 

Swimming has never been just a sport for me. It is the place where I have grown, struggled, learnt, and found myself. Some of my earliest and most important lessons have come not from classrooms, but from the quiet hours spent in the pool. Over time, the water has become my anchor and my coach, teaching me that effort matters and that consistency, more than talent, is what truly shapes you.

What I love most about swimming is how honestly it treats you. In the water, your entire body works together. Every stroke needs coordination, strength, and balance. There is no hiding from the effort. Some days feel light and smooth, while others feel heavy and exhausting, but every lap adds something. Slowly, without you even noticing, endurance builds, confidence grows, and your body becomes stronger. Swimming has taught me patience and respect for the process.

Beyond the physical side, swimming has shaped my mindset. Learning to control my breathing during difficult sets and races, has helped me stay calm under pressure. There are moments in the pool when quitting feels easier than continuing, and choosing to push through those moments has taught me resilience. Those lessons follow me outside the pool, into my studies and everyday challenges.

As a Class XII student, life often feels fast and overwhelming. Swimming gives me a sense of balance. The rhythm of the water helps quiet my thoughts and clear my head. After a swim, I feel lighter, more focused, and ready to face whatever comes next. It reminds me that slowing down can sometimes make you stronger.

Balancing training with academics has not been easy, but it has made me disciplined and organised. Early mornings, strict routines, and tired evenings have taught me the value of commitment. Swimming has shown me that progress is not about sudden breakthroughs, but about showing up every day, even when motivation is low.

In the end, swimming is much more than exercise for me. It is where I learnt self-belief, patience, and strength. As a student and a national level swimmer, swimming continues to inspire me to face life’s challenges with confidence and purpose. Built by the water, I carry its lessons with me, wherever I go.

Ameya Kaushal
Class XII

From Stress to Confidence: My Class 10 Board Preparation

As a Class 10 student, the approach of board examinations brings a lot of stress and anxiety. The syllabus feels vast, time feels limited, and the constant importance given to boards makes the pressure even heavier and more intense. No matter how much I study, I often feel underprepared and worried about my performance in examinations.

When my school announced winter classes, my first reaction was hesitation. The winter break feels like the only chance to rest, and honestly, laziness also plays a part. Waking up early on cold mornings and attending classes does not sound appealing at all. However, after joining the classes, I slowly realise how helpful they are and how they are helping me revise the chapters.

The winter classes provide a proper routine and clear direction to my preparation. Teachers revise important chapters, clarify doubts, and guide us on how to approach questions effectively. Studying in a classroom environment helps me stay focused and disciplined, which is difficult to achieve while studying alone at home. The regular tests being taken also help me track my performance.

Gradually, my fear of exams has started reducing. Regular revision and constant support from teachers have enhanced my confidence. Concepts that once seem difficult are becoming clearer, and I am beginning to trust my preparation and my right decision of attending the winter camp.

In the end, this phase has taught me that stepping out of my comfort zone and overcoming laziness is necessary during important times. The winter classes not only improve my preparation but also help me handle exam stress better. This experience is becoming an important and memorable part of my Class 10 journey.

Shourya Shandilya

Class 10