By Namrata Goddeti for BIS Mumbai

Recognising that a student’s journey is shaped as much by emotional strength and family support as by academic effort, Don Bosco School and Junior College, Nashik, organised an informative and engaging seminar titled “Care, Connect and Grow” on October 10, 2026. The programme was designed for the parents and students of Std X and Std XII, who stand at a crucial juncture in their educational lives. Held under the guiding support of the Principal, Fr Rixson Nigrel, the initiative aimed at helping students meet academic challenges with confidence while promoting emotional well-being, positive parenting and informed career choices.

The seminar featured two eminent resource persons: Sheetal Tanna, Life Coach, and Brinda Rawal, Career Consultant and Corporate Trainer. Drawing on their experience, they offered practical insights into the pressures, uncertainties and decisions that students face at this stage, and spoke to parents and students alike in a manner that was relatable and encouraging.

The first session, on examination stress, highlighted practical strategies that students can adopt in their daily routine: effective time management, systematic preparation, regular revision, adequate sleep and a positive attitude. Students were encouraged to approach examinations with confidence and to see them as opportunities to showcase their learning rather than as sources of fear and anxiety. The speakers also emphasised that sleep, balanced nutrition and good mental health are essential to sharpening concentration, improving memory and enhancing overall academic performance.

The segment on emotional well-being and parental support underlined the vital role parents play in building their children’s confidence and resilience. Parents were encouraged to create a warm and nurturing home environment where children feel heard, understood and appreciated. Open communication, patient listening and reassurance were presented as essential practices that help young people face challenges with courage. At the same time, parents were gently reminded to avoid comparisons with other children and to set realistic expectations, since these can erode a child’s self-esteem and add to existing pressure. The session reinforced the importance of a strong partnership between parents and educators in supporting the holistic development of every student.

The career guidance session invited students to look within before looking ahead. They were encouraged to explore their interests, abilities, aptitudes and aspirations before taking important academic and professional decisions. Students were motivated to consider the wide range of career opportunities available today and to choose pathways aligned with their individual strengths, rather than yielding to peer pressure or societal expectations. Parents, too, were reminded of the importance of supporting their children’s informed choices and keeping an open mind about diverse career options.

The seminar proved to be a meaningful platform for parents and students to gain practical guidance and a deeper understanding of the emotional, academic and career-related needs of young learners. It reinforced the message that student success depends not only on academic achievement but also on emotional balance, strong family support and thoughtful planning. The interaction between the resource persons, parents and students also fostered a spirit of openness and mutual understanding, allowing families to reflect on how they can walk together through this important phase.

Through this initiative, Don Bosco School and Junior College, Nashik, reaffirmed its commitment to the holistic growth of every learner, in keeping with the spirit of care and accompaniment that defines Don Bosco institutions. The school remains dedicated to nurturing confident, resilient and responsible individuals, helping every student move towards a healthier, happier and brighter future.