Written By: Tanisha Malyan
Priti Agarwal: Leading with Passion to Transform Education
In the expansive world of education where learning creates a future, one woman has become a genuine and aspirational leader. Mrs. Priti Agarwal, the Founder-Promoter of Kangaroo Kids and the Billabong franchise in Kanpur has not only created an imprint but has also facilitated a significant shift to the education system in Northern India. Through her stewardship of Billabong High International School, she integrates creativity, inclusion, excellence and built a school that prepares children for the future.
A New Kind of Education- Billabong High International School:
Billabong High International School is much more than a school, it is a space for curiosity, problem-solving, original thought, fitness and even financial literacy. The unique hybrid learning model also relies on Microsoft Teams digital learning to ensure students can progress with learning outside of the classroom. The campus is open with thoughtfully designed creative spaces to help children develop confidence and many essential soft skills. With the option of CBSE National or International CIE-IGCSE and A Levels, learning is inclusive for all learners regardless of their background.
The Vision:
She saw the features of a powerful experience for both children and parents in education. Priti was determined to bring that experience to Kanpur through investment in parent counselling, teacher training and building modern classrooms. After all, Billabong started to operate large campuses and eventually collaborated with one of north India’s present-day, prominent educative pioneers.
“My journey in education is about weaving hopes and dreams. At Kangaroo Kids and Billabong High Kanpur, we envision a future where every child has the wings to soar high.” – Priti Agarwal
Developing Emotional Intelligence:
At Billabong, there is meaning in education and it isn’t purely academic. To further education, Mrs. Agarwal introduced the RULER Program with Yale University which put Social and Emotional Learning in the spotlight. This offered something different for Billabong Kanpur, because it was one of the few schools accepted in a formal capacity as an SEL School.
Open to All- Inclusion and Opportunities:
Billabong High upholds equitable opportunity for all students, Billabong High students come from very diverse social and economic class backgrounds mostly in the local community of West Footscray and from all around Melbourne. Billabong High is an extraordinarily diverse school and it actively has an inclusion model. Students have been able to participate authentically in a myriad of events and happenings like debates, career counselling, the World Scholar’s Cup, TED talks, university fairs, IIMUN, boot camps, horticulture classes and charitable events. Students have even travelled and visited schools overseas such as Westminster and Highgate (London).
Addressing Challenges – Pandemic Response:
Every school community in every part of the world felt drained during the COVID-19 pandemic but with leadership from Mrs Agarwal, Billabong High was able to refocus and pivot during that pandemic to opportunity. Microsoft Teams and Firefly helped them a lot in conducting successful parents meeting, giving homework and maintaining teaching. Their refocus and adapt demonstrate admirable commitment to continuous education.
Technology-Enabled Learning for Tomorrow:
Technology is a learning partner at Billabong High. Technology is used to promote group discussion and online projects to continue assessments using innovative tools such as Google Classroom, Microsoft Team and ChatGPT. Digital skills and knowledge is just as important as academic knowledge today.
Looking Forward- Future Initiatives:
In the opinion of Mrs. Agarwal, education must develop people who are not only intelligent but also have values. As AI and creativity continue to change industries and influence our world, she wants to ensure students begin learning to value honesty, accountability, discipline and consideration in themselves, in their education and in their futures. The school is planning a number of initiatives that she is excited about, which include enrichment days, cultural festivals, arts programs, exchange walks and charities to ensure students become educated citizens of the world.
Her Leadership Style- Integrity and Empathy:
She believes in giving opportunities that align with the strengths of her team while being an ongoing support to their growth and development. By empowering her teachers and staff, she is able to create a positive culture where ultimately the students benefit.
“Fueling dreams and shaping excellence- I lead at Kangaroo Kids & Billabong High Kanpur, with ever-lasting hope for every child.”- Priti Agarwal
Trust and Teams- Foundation of success:
For Mrs. Agarwal, success is contingent upon trust, communication and collaboration. In this way, each step is celebrated and ever move along the journey is a reason to celebrate together in a process that nurtures the concept of teamwork.
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Conclusion- A Source of Motivation:
Billabong High International School and its founder Priti Agarwal, redefine the importance of resilience, vision and passion. The application of international pedagogy, transformed experiences of delivery and emotional learning have changed the delivery of educational opportunities in North India and that is her legacy. Her way of citizenship work is a testament to the notion that education is not just about academia but it is about empowering young people, instilling values and providing the inspiration for the leaders of tomorrow. Billabong High is a shining example of a school inspiring generations that will dream beyond conventions.