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"If you win the heart of the parents and the children, nobody can stop you from getting the medal of the best teacher."
Harpreet Kaur Gujral, a seasoned educator and the current Vice Principal of a reputed institution, embodies the very essence of what it means to be a transformative leader in education. Her journey, spanning over eighteen years, wasn't a straight line but a winding path of passion, adaptation, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference. From a small local school to a significant leadership role, her story is a powerful masterclass in career growth and the art of genuine connection.
"I was always looking forward to being independent and to give something to the society."
Harpreet’s entry into the world of teaching wasn't born from a childhood dream, but from a profound desire for self-reliance and a calling to contribute meaningfully to her community. She began her career as a pre-primary teacher in a small, local school, an experience that she looks back on with great fondness.
This humble beginning was the perfect training ground. It taught her the fundamentals of education at the grassroots level and solidified her belief that teaching was the most impactful way to give back. It was here she learned her first and most important lesson: education is not just about curriculum; it's about connection.
"I brought in a lot of changes in terms of skill-based teaching amongst my teachers."
Harpreet's passion and dedication did not go unnoticed. Her career trajectory is a story of continuous growth and seizing opportunities with both hands.
- Climbing the Ranks: She transitioned from a pre-primary teacher to a Primary Teacher (PRT), and soon after, her leadership potential was recognized, earning her the position of Headmistress.
- A Record of Success: Her impact was immediate and measurable. Under her leadership, the school's student population more than doubled, growing from 100 to 250 students. This wasn’t just a numerical increase; it was a reflection of the trust she had built within the community.
- Innovating from Within: As a leader, Harpreet was a visionary. She saw the need to move beyond rote learning and championed "skill-based teaching." She didn't just introduce the concept; she mentored her teachers, empowering them with new methodologies that focused on preparing students for life, not just for exams.
"Because my husband hails from the defence, you know, every three years, we are supposed to move on."
Life, however, came with its own set of challenges. Being married to a defence officer meant frequent relocations, a reality that often put her career at a crossroads. While she embraced each move as an opportunity to learn and adapt, it also meant compromising on designations and starting anew in different cities.
The real challenge emerged when she was ready for a senior leadership role. The market for positions like Vice Principal or Principal is incredibly competitive, with very few vacancies. After years of dedicated service and proven success, she found herself struggling to find an opportunity that matched her experience and aspirations.
"I would tell them, please contact Suraasa... and nail your destiny the way you want to."
It was during this critical phase of her career that Harpreet connected with Suraasa. What she found was not just a recruitment platform, but a team of dedicated professionals who understood the nuances of the education industry and, more importantly, understood her value as an educator.
Suraasa became her "pathfinder," guiding her through the complexities of the job market for school leaders.
- Understanding the Market: They provided invaluable insights into salary expectations and market trends, helping her position herself correctly.
- Professionalism and Trust: The process was marked by transparency, prompt follow-ups, and clear communication, which built immense confidence.
- The Right Opportunity: Suraasa didn't just find her a job; they found her the right job. They identified an opportunity that was a perfect fit for her skills and ambitions, leading her to her current role as Vice Principal.
"Suraasa has been very polite, very supportive, and a pathfinder, showing the route or the roadmap as to what should be taken."
Harpreet’s journey offers invaluable lessons for every educator seeking to advance their career. She believes that while qualifications are important, it's the intangible qualities that truly set a teacher apart.
- Build Your Skills: "All we need to do is build up the skills, polish ourselves, and meet the current requirements of the market." The education sector is dynamic. Continuous learning and upskilling are non-negotiable.
- Connect from the Heart: Her core philosophy remains unchanged. Win the trust and affection of your students and parents. That is your greatest accolade.
- Seek the Right Support: Don't hesitate to seek professional guidance. For her, Suraasa was the catalyst that propelled her into her dream role, providing the support and opportunities she needed to succeed.
Today, as a Vice Principal, Harpreet Kaur Gujral continues to inspire, innovate, and lead with heart. Her story is a powerful reminder that with passion, resilience, and the right partners, any career challenge can be transformed into a stepping stone for success.
