In the dynamic landscape of the education industry, where the pursuit of knowledge intersects with innovation, the role of preschools stands as a foundational pillar. These early learning environments serve as the stepping stones to a child's educational journey, shaping not only their academic prowess but also fostering holistic development. One noteworthy leader in this sector is Reshma Shetty, the Founder and Principal of Angel Kids Preschool. With an impressive career spanning over two decades, Reshma has been an unwavering advocate for excellence in education, transforming Angel Kids into a premier standalone preschool brand in Kachiguda, Hyderabad.

Reshma's dedication to educational excellence is evident in her diverse background, holding a commerce degree and undertaking a Certificate Course in early childhood and care. Committed to continuous improvement, she has actively participated in numerous workshops to refine her skills. Notably, Reshma's commitment to leadership and entrepreneurship was further strengthened through her participation in 2010 in the 10,000 Women Entrepreneurship Program sponsored by Goldman Sachs at ISB, Hyderabad. Her recent completion of the Advanced Woman Ambassador Program in 2021 at IIM, Bangalore underscores her commitment to staying at the forefront of educational leadership.

Beyond her role as an educational leader, Reshma is a passionate advocate for empowering women entrepreneurs. Her vision extends beyond the classroom, aiming to provide financial independence to women, thereby enriching lives and fostering a positive impact on communities. In the realm of women leaders in play and preschools, Reshma Shetty stands out as an inspirational force, contributing significantly to the empowerment and growth of this crucial sector. Discover more insights from her below.

Tell us about your educational background and what led you to enter the education sector.

My academic journey comprises a Commerce degree from Mumbai University, complemented by concurrent pursuits of an LLB & Company Secretaryship, and a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Bharatanatyam, where I achieved state-level recognition. The backdrop of my orthodox family held education in high regard, and my inherent passion for teaching and nurturing found wholehearted acceptance.

Describe your prior industry experience and your specialization areas in education.

Embarking on my entrepreneurial path as a franchisee to NIIT LEDA marked the beginning of my diverse experiences, allowing me to engage with children across a broad spectrum from pre-primary to K12. This exposure, coupled with assisting young adults in acquiring fundamental computer skills, laid the foundation for establishing a preschool. Subsequently, I honed my skills further through participation in Montessori and Waldorf workshops. This journey culminated in the introduction of Playgroup as a distinct class at Angel Kids, distinguishing it with a meticulously structured curriculum.

Introduce Angel Kids School and outline your roles and responsibilities as the principal.

Angel Kids School, tagged as 'Preschool For Excellence,' prioritizes child growth, education quality, and equal opportunities. My focus is curriculum planning, teacher training, operations, strategy, and business growth, ensuring consistent student participation in events like the annual day.

What challenges do you face as an educator, and how do you address them?

I would say that balancing parental expectations for quick results with the need for holistic child development poses a challenge. We counsel parents to educate them on the process and address learning difficulties early for effective long-term coping.

Tell us about the most significant milestone in your professional journey.

One of the most momentous milestones in my professional journey has been the reception of a distinguished scholarship from Goldman Sachs. This esteemed recognition was awarded in acknowledgment of my participation in their Women Entrepreneur and Women Ambassador programs, held at renowned institutions such as the Indian School of Business (ISB Hyderabad) and the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIM Bangalore).

Adding to this noteworthy recognition, the Lion’s Club bestowed upon me the prestigious 'Best Teacher/ Budding Entrepreneur Award.' This accolade holds profound significance, as it not only acknowledges my role as an educator but also underscores my entrepreneurial endeavors, particularly in the establishment and growth of Angel Kids Preschool. These dual honors serve as tangible validations of the impact and success achieved in my professional journey, affirming the dedication, innovation, and commitment that have been integral to the development of Angel Kids Preschool.

How do you foresee the evolution of India’s early education landscape, and which trends will have the most significant impact?

The National Education Policy (NEP) will shape India’s education, emphasizing a uniform syllabus and recognizing the crucial role of Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE). The shift from rote learning to problem-solving and soft skills will be pivotal in the tech-driven era.

Reshma Shetty, Founder & Principal, Angel Kids Preschool

Reshma Shetty is the Founder and Principal of Angel Kids Preschool. She is a trailblazer in the primary education industry with over two decades of experience. Her commitment to excellence and passion for empowering women entrepreneurs has transformed Angel Kids into a leading standalone preschool in Kachiguda, Hyderabad.