From Classrooms to Confidence: The Power of Co-Curricular Engagement

By Lodha

Co-curricular activities play a pivotal role in shaping a student’s overall development, extending learning beyond the classroom. These activities, which include sports, arts, debate, drama, music, and leadership programs, provide students with essential life skills, fostering holistic growth and preparing them for the future. The campuses of Lodha World School and Lodha Oakwood School—both among the premier international schools in Mumbai—place a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities, encouraging children to participate and excel. These activities include, but are not limited to sports, theatre, olympiads, music, young leadership, and socially responsible activities.

One of the most significant benefits of co-curricular participation is the development of interpersonal and leadership skills. Activities such as student councils, public speaking, and team sports teach students communication, teamwork, and problem-solving—skills that are invaluable in both academic and professional settings. Engaging in such programs helps build confidence and resilience, empowering students to take initiative and adapt to challenges.

Most recently, Rodney Eljeevdas from Lodha World School, CBG Palava (LWS CBG Palava)—Class 9—secured 4th place among 50 global participants at the Harvard Undergraduate Science Olympiad. Meanwhile, students from Lodha World School, LSG Palava (LWS LSG Palava) excelled in the ECAT, MCAT, and SCAT exams as part of the NELTAS assessment programme.

Sports and fitness programs promote a healthy lifestyle, instilling discipline and stress management techniques that benefit students throughout their lives. They also help foster a sense of belonging, reducing anxiety and boosting self-esteem. Students from our schools are going for glory in their choice of sport. Avani Parab - Class 3, LWS Thane, won gold & silver medals at the FSKA World Cup Karate Championship 2024. Over 1500 children from 25 nations participated in this global competition. Ashvin S - Class 11, LWS CBG Palava, is a certified champion in swimming. He secured 1st position at the State Level Fastest Long Distance Swimmer (10 km), and 2nd position at the State Level Sea Swimming Competition (5 km).

Beyond academics, Lodha Schools actively foster a spirit of teamwork and healthy competition through a diverse range of sporting events. The Annual Athletics Meet and Sports Days bring together students of all age groups, while the Lodha Championship Trophy—an interschool football league—recently saw enthusiastic participation across campuses. Multisport events like the HotFut Interschool Championships encourage students to excel in both team sports, such as basketball and cricket, and individual sports like athletics, swimming, and table tennis, fostering camaraderie and resilience among learners.

Beyond academics and sports, cognitive and creative skills are also enhanced through participation in arts, music, and literary activities. These stimulate creativity, improve concentration, and sharpen critical thinking. Co-curricular activities also contribute to physical and emotional well-being. Lodha Schools arrange various events that focus on such activities as Grandparents' Day, fancy dress events for younger students, annual concerts and plays, as well as Christmas and Diwali celebrations. The Nrityanjali Fest 2024, a zonal-level interschool competition was recently organised to encourage the pursuit of Indian and Western dance forms like Kathak, Western Dance, and Mono Acts. A poetry & caption writing competition was conducted by Daakroom Carnival in which Pluksh Tripathi - Class 9, LWS Taloja won the 1st prize.

Co-curricular activities provide students with exposure to real-world experiences. Internships, volunteering, and community service programs allow them to develop empathy, social awareness, and a global perspective—key traits for future leaders. While being more than just an extension of academics, they are a transformative force that equips students with the skills, confidence, and experience needed to thrive in an increasingly dynamic world.