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Ekya / January 02, 2023 Posted by : administrator

With a growing number of young people seeking employment opportunities overseas, the IGCSE syllabus has piqued the curiosity of school-going students and their parents recently. On one hand, the parents want to facilitate more career options for their children. On the other hand, they’re concerned that admitting their children to IGCSE board schools in Bangalore may hamper their chances of clearing national-level examinations or seeking government jobs. There is a cloud of smoke around IGCSE courses in India. 

If you intend to enrol your child in one of the best IGCSE schools in Bangalore, read on to find answers to most of your questions.

Common Concerns Around The IGCSE Courses

  • What is IGCSE and how will it benefit my child?

The IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) is a globally accepted certification course offered by the UCIE (University of Cambridge International Examinations). Students who complete their education at an IGCSE school are eligible to apply for A-level qualifications at prestigious universities in the United Kingdom and the United States. The IGCSE curriculum is a two-level curriculum divided into ‘core’ and ‘extended’ sections. It allows students to choose 5-14 subjects from a list of 70, including first (or native) language, second language, science, social science, mathematics, arts & design, performing arts, and business studies. The board follows an eight-point (A*–G) grading system for students’ assessments.

Children taking the IGCSE course always have an edge over their contemporaries because it covers a large number of areas and provides uniformity in education worldwide. Some experts have observed that IGCSE board students tend to have a solid understanding of foundational concepts taught in the IBDP.

  • In which grade should my child switch to the IGCSE curriculum?

There’s no such thing as the “right time to switch” to an IGCSE curriculum. Even if the student doesn’t plan to study overseas now, enrolling in an international curriculum will empower them with global perspectives and experiences. Generally, it takes students at least two years to understand and settle into the IGCSE programme. Accordingly, students and parents can choose when to switch.

  • How is IGCSE different from CBSE or ICSE boards?

While ICSE and CBSE syllabuses are regionally-tailored to explore more topics related to India, IGCSE, on the other hand, is more standardised and promotes a global standard for education. It is in alignment with the government’s NEP (New Education Policy) 2020, especially in terms of skill training, vocational courses, project-based learning, formative assessments, etc.

  • Can my child switch back to the ICSE or CBSE board?

    Yes.

  • Can my child take national-level entrance exams after completing their education at IGCSE board schools?

Yes. The IGCSE course content is in line with the prescribed syllabus followed by various universities and bodies that conduct all-india competitive examinations for medicine, engineering, design, or business studies. Moreover, all institutions and employing bodies in India recognise the A/As level curriculum.

Since the curriculum follows a practical approach and tests students through application-based questions or real-life projects, students get opportunities to practise and develop critical skills. E.g., quick thinking, decision-making, problem-solving, reasoning & analysis, scientific temper, observation, etc. These skills are tested in all kinds of competitive and professional exams, irrespective of whether they’re conducted in or outside India.

  • How is the curriculum implemented differently at top IGCSE syllabus schools in Bangalore like the Ekya Schools?

Ekya schools, as one of the top IGCSE schools in Bangalore, have an in-house, personalised curriculum, tailored by the experts as per the international curriculum. By steering away from mugging or rote learning, it creates opportunities for students to indulge in experiential, hands-on learning beyond the classrooms. It allows young minds to:

  • Develop an understanding of subject matter and its applications
  • Apply what they’ve learned inside the class to new and unfamiliar situations
  • Pursue their curiosity through discovery, exploration, trial, and experimentation
  • Clear their doubts with discussions and intellectual enquiries
  • Adopt a more flexible & problem-solving approach in the face of challenges
  • Use a design-thinking, open, and collaborative approach to find solutions
  • Build socio-emotional, cultural, and global awareness

Educators at Ekya are well-trained (through expert workshops and training sessions) to build a culture of communication, reasoning, and inquiry that is necessary to develop 21st-century skills in students. They create the right atmosphere for settling into the novel curriculum by setting clear expectations in terms of learning, culture, and behaviour. They break their lessons into smaller milestones and goals, allow students the flexibility to choose their assignments, and give them enough time and space for settlement before they decide to take the final examination.

The school provides additional support to students who face any challenges, both within and outside of regular school hours.

Did that spark your curiosity about the IGCSE course? Click here to learn more about IGCSE learning at Ekya Schools.

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Ekya / April 03, 2024

The Power of Learning with Intent: A Guide to Purposeful Education

In a world brimming with information, the art of learning has evolved beyond the mere acquisition of facts. Learning with intent, a deliberate approach to education emphasises quality over quantity, depth over breadth, and purpose over passive absorption. It’s about cultivating a mindset that transforms knowledge into meaningful action and empowers individuals to navigate the complexities of the modern age effectively.

At its core, learning with intent involves setting clear objectives and actively engaging with the subject matter. Whether exploring a new language, delving into scientific principles, or honing a creative skill, intentionality infuses each learning endeavour with purpose and direction. As Albert Einstein aptly said, "The only source of knowledge is experience." This quote amplifies the importance of active participation and hands-on learning, highlighting that true understanding arises from deliberate engagement with the material.

Furthermore, engaging actively with the material is paramount. Embrace challenges and embrace mistakes as opportunities for growth. This proactive approach not only deepens your understanding but also cultivates critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for success in any field.

Moreover, learning with intent emphasises relevance and applicability. Seek out opportunities to apply newfound knowledge in real-world scenarios, bridging the gap between theory and practice. By contextualising learning within your personal or professional sphere, you enhance its significance and utility, making it more likely to stick.

In conclusion, learning with intent is a transformative approach that transcends traditional notions of education. By setting clear objectives, engaging actively, prioritising relevance, and fostering a growth mindset, individuals can harness the full potential of learning to achieve their goals and thrive in an ever-changing world. So, embark on your learning journey with purpose, and let each lesson propel you towards a brighter, more fulfilling future.

By Sweta Pradeep Rao

Senior English Educator

Ekya School JP Nagar

Ekya / April 02, 2024

Gadget-free Summer Break

With summer vacation around, I urge parents to explore various ways to facilitate children to make healthy choices during their vacation time.

Last week, when we asked our Early Years to visualise their characters and create a story, most of them came up with stories about ghosts and monsters attacking others.  When we had conversations about what gave them this idea, we understood that these story ideas emanated from their online games. While gaming per se develops specific skills and requires focus, it also stifles the imagination of young children. Since it is visually appealing, children tend to remember those images in their heads all the time.

I often see parents providing very young children (1 year to 3 year olds)  with gadgets as the means to keep children engaged and entertained. I see children watching phones in the waiting areas of clinics, hospitals, school lobbies and banks.

This brings us to a fundamental question “ Should children be engaged by parents all the time?” Not necessarily. What is likely to happen if children were not handed over gadgets at the waiting lounges? What would they do? Some of them may cry, some may throw a loud tantrum, and some may crib. If parents show resilience and allow children to settle down themselves, they will soon find ways to keep themselves engaged. Likewise, during summer vacation. What if this is a “no gadget” vacation and parents do not take up the responsibility to engage their children? What would children do? How can parents show resilience here and facilitate children to make healthy choices? I leave the readers with this thought for this summer vacation.

Mathangi R,

Head of School,

Ekya NICE Road.

Ekya / April 02, 2024

The Eye of the Storm

In the hushed embrace of an Indian evening, our journey began, a symphony of anticipation orchestrated by the hum of jet engines and the flutter of boarding passes. The promise of adventure beckoned from distant shores as we boarded our flight bound for the United Kingdom, our hearts aflutter with dreams of far-off lands and newfound horizons. But as we soared through the velvet sky, a foreboding shadow loomed on the horizon, a harbinger of the chaos that was soon to unfold. In the blink of an eye, the tranquil serenity of our airborne sanctuary was shattered by a deafening crack, a burst of purple lightning that danced across the heavens with an otherworldly fervour. The air crackled with electricity as the plane shuddered beneath the force of the storm, its metal frame quivering in defiance against the tempestuous onslaught. And then, in a heart-stopping moment of sheer terror, the heavens unleashed their fury upon us, casting our fragile vessel into a maelstrom of chaos and uncertainty. The sky darkened to a shade of ominous charcoal as the winds howled with a primal ferocity, tearing at the wings of our faltering craft with savage intent. The cabin was awash with panicked cries and frantic prayers as we clung to our seats with white-knuckled desperation, each passing moment stretching into eternity.

And then, as if mocking our feeble attempts at control, the plane tilted almost 180 degrees, its nose plummeting towards the earth with a sickening lurch. Time seemed to stand still as we hurtled towards the ground, our fate hanging in the balance as the world spun wildly out of control. But just when all hope seemed lost, a glimmer of salvation emerged from the chaos, a beacon of light amidst the encroaching darkness. With a mighty roar, the engines surged to life once more, their thunderous symphony drowning out the cacophony of the storm as we clawed our way back from the brink of oblivion. As the storm clouds parted and the sun cast its golden rays upon the horizon, we emerged battered but unbroken, our spirits buoyed by the triumph of the human spirit in the face of adversity. And though our journey had been fraught with peril and uncertainty, we emerged from the crucible of the skies stronger and more resilient than ever before. For in the crucible of adversity, we discovered the true measure of our strength, our courage, and our unwavering determination to defy the odds and chart our course through the tempestuous seas of life. As we touched down on solid ground once more, I couldn't help but marvel at the beauty of the world around us, a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human soul.

Arjun Narasimhan Kuppuswamy

Grade 8C

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Kindergarten Teaching & Learning: Why Is It Crucial For Preschoolers?

Are you seeking the best kindergarten schools in Bangalore to give your child a great start in life? Continue reading to discover how a good kindergarten programme builds a resilient foundation for your child.

Importance of Kindergarten Education

Kindergarten offers little ones (aged 3 to 6 years) the first opportunity to learn and practise critical life skills crucial for lifelong learning, growth, and development. The activities and lessons incorporated in the curriculum aim at building self-esteem, emotional intelligence, social behaviour, and foundational skills like curiosity, collaboration, observation, creativity, decision-making, problem-solving, etc., that are needed during and beyond the school years. Flexible pedagogies and engaging classroom activities encourage peer-to-peer interactions, strengthen student-teacher relationships, and create a culture of collaboration. The kindergarten years, heavily dependent on experiential learning, mainly through play, sensory activities, and environmental interactions, build a strong foundation for the academic journey of toddlers.

The Unique Aspects Of Kindergarten Learning At The Best International Schools In Bangalore

The early year programme at the best kindergarten schools in Bangalore fosters:
  • The Love For Learning
The curriculum is developed to engage children in enjoyable experiences so they can live their lessons every day. Experiential learning involves all five senses. Preschoolers are more focused and comprehend their lessons in a better way. When they start enjoying their lessons, they're intrinsically motivated to explore their curiosity, establishing the love and diligent habit of autonomous learning.
  • Social Etiquette
A child's social circle is limited to immediate family and relatives at home. However, in a classroom, they meet and greet people of different age groups, genders, backgrounds, cultures, and thought processes. It includes their friends, educators, the school staff, and the parents of their peers. Interacting with a diverse population encourages them to open up, chat, share, and bond with different people. They also learn to express their emotions, channel their thoughts and communicate their minds, which is essential for developing good social and communication skills, relationships, and an open mind later in life.
  • An Active Imagination
A major part of kindergarten is dedicated to free play, unstructured learning, and creative expression. Toddlers indulge in storytelling, dance, drama, rhymes, playground activities, role plays, festive celebrations, freestyle drawing, etc., developing an active imagination, design thinking, structured learning abilities, and creativity in the early years. The right balance between structured and unstructured learning is essential for nurturing a child's imagination. An active imagination leads to discoveries, innovations, and out-of-the-box thinking, which helps imaginative young minds find unique ways to solve problems and design new things.
  • Academic Excellence And Future Growth
Kindergarten facilitates the transition from play-based learning to formal school education. Children start understanding structures, listening to and following instructions, following routines and getting a basic idea of rules and regulations. Educators can develop early literacy, comprehension, scientific temperament, and numerical abilities. Strengthening the basics builds a strong foundation for learning complex concepts in the higher grades.  Child development experts believe that when children receive holistic education during the formative years, it positively impacts their academic performance in higher grades and professional success. Early education has a crucial role in shaping their interest in different subjects & co-curricular activities.

How Ekya's Kindergarten Programme Nurtures Curiosity & Independent Learning?

Ekya Schools, one of the best kindergarten schools in Bangalore, follows an inquiry-driven, experiential learning-based curriculum to encourage curiosity, exploration, and independent learning. It centres around active observation, self-awareness, and free expression. Educators use various tools and activities to engage students in lessons and foster a love for learning. E.g., sand play, water play, gardening, puppetry, visual arts, sports, etc. These tools ensure the holistic development of students. The curriculum is consciously curated to cater to different learning styles and builds a connection between classroom learning and everyday activities. As children learn about numbers, letters, geometric shapes, colours, and society, they develop a natural interest in relating these to their world. Preschoolers access dedicated learning spaces and resources for building their knowledge and practising new skills. There are dedicated hours for hands-on activities, reading, storytelling, etc., which allow students to work with different materials & peers, share their ideas, and enthusiastically explore their areas of interest. It creates opportunities for educators to offer emotional scaffolding, respond to social, physical, or cognitive changes, and give feedback for improvement to support a child's emerging capabilities.

Ekya's Quest Programme:

It raises children as inquirers, thinkers, risk-takers, and researchers by covering diverse quest-based topics, ranging from family to wildlife, personal safety, surrounding areas, etc. Children undertake excursions, indulge in discussions, work with peers, and interact with their surroundings to develop awareness and build on their existing knowledge.

The Benefits

By the time kindergartener finish school, they:
  • Develop early reading, writing, drawing, gross & fine motor skills
  • Recognise letters, numbers, names, patterns, structures, objects, sequences, etc.
  • Learn to use educational supplies and resources (e.g., scissors for cutting, glue for pasting, an abacus for counting, etc.)
  • Make rhymes, stories, imaginative drawings, and communications
  • Practise self-care, basic hygiene, and daily routine (e.g., folding napkins, holding cutlery, washing hands, etc.)
  • Follow social etiquette (e.g., saying sorry or thank you, sharing toys, helping friends, etc.)
  • Understand basic moods & emotions, handle disappointment & boredom, take directions, etc.
Ekya Schools is great for children to develop their natural capabilities and learn 21st-century skills for future growth. Click to learn more about kindergarten education at Ekya, especially if you're looking for the  

Montessori Programme At Ekya Schools–The Best International School in Bangalore!

Montessori is a window to the outside world for toddlers. Montessori education is important for encouraging empathy, fostering independence, supporting the spirit of inquiry, and probing deep into children's minds to make emotional connections. Giving a good start to your children can make them enthusiastic, confident, diligent, and self-directed. If you're looking for the best Montessori schools in Bangalore, here's all the information you need.

The Unique Aspects Of Montessori Teaching & Learning

  • Ensuring Belongingness
Montessori education is a toddler's first step away from their home's safe and familiar environment and toward the unknown and unfamiliar school settings. A classroom with 3-year-olds from diverse family backgrounds recreates a family-like structure. Children feel they belong to a close, caring community. They pick up significant values like care, kindness, respect, etc., modelled by their teachers.
  • Encouraging Socio-Emotional Development
Maria Montessori's teaching methodology has proven its effectiveness in aiding child development for more than a century. It motivates children to cooperate and share resources. The classroom activities are developed to teach children to respect, care for, and help each other. 
  • Nurturing The Pursuit Of Curiosity
Preschoolers are curious about everything around them. Children have the freedom to learn from their mistakes: constructive feedback, acknowledgement, and compliments aid internal satisfaction, which motivates children to learn more. Children have the freedom to learn from their mistakes: constructive feedback, acknowledgement, and compliments aid internal satisfaction, which motivates children to learn more. Teachers at the best Montessori schools in Bangalore create an environment based on question-answering, hands-on experimentation, and exploration that allows students to find answers to mysteries.
  • Discovering Unique Learning Styles
As we know, every child has a different and unique learning style. Montessori education includes rhymes, storytelling, reading, music, dance, games, free play, children's movies, etc. They help children explore different learning styles and encourage them to learn at their own pace.
  • Establishing Independence & Order
The best Montessori schools in Bangalore design their classrooms, learning materials, activities, and routines to encourage curiosity and self-regulation (or the ability to think and educate oneself). Children learn to listen to and follow instructions through many learning resources, get into a routine, collaborate with peers over activities, and form opinions on various topics. Little ones enjoy trying new things with their peers, feel supported, and form friendships. It builds their self-esteem and gives them the courage to settle outside their homes.
  • Instilling a Self-Correcting Approach
Preschoolers in a classroom have freedom within limits set by the educators. With their teacher's feedback, they learn to recognise their mistakes, differentiate "good and bad behaviour". Montessori Learning At Ekya Schools Ekya Schools believes in ensuring "learning through doing," not just instruction, at the Montessori level. Their personalised, in-house curriculum nurtures the spirit of inquiry by stimulating all five senses to maximise the learning output. Teachers constantly monitor interactions, encourage careful observation, and ask questions for children to probe deeper into concepts. The focus is on developing independence, responsibility, and a love for learning, with engaging activities at the core of its learning methodology. Their curriculum involves a blend of structured and unstructured activities to ensure readiness for higher grades.

The Main Components

  • Play
Considering the importance of free and structured play in fine-tuning motor skills & developing focus, teachers arrange activities that allow children to learn through engaging experiences. E.g., age-appropriate sports, puzzles, sand play, water play, gardening, etc.
  • Sensorial Activities
Children form a perspective about the world based on specific parameters at this age. E.g., length, size, shape, colour, sound, taste, smell, texture, etc. Teachers use these stimuli to encourage acute observation, judgement, and decision-making in children.
  • Reading & Comprehension Development
Ekya Schools cultivate an early reading habit to foster a lifelong love of books. They implement an age-appropriate reading programme with storytelling and related activities to expand students' vocabulary, comprehension, and literacy.
  • Worldly Exposure
Students are introduced to festivals, annual days, seasonal events, and 'special days' (like grandparent's day, environment day, etc.) to generate awareness about their nation, culture, and society.
  • Skill Development
Toddlers are indulged in activities that refine their hand-eye coordination, balance, motor skills, limb strength, mental concentration, etc. E.g., cutting and pasting, origami, fingerprinting, jumping, hopping, dancing, having one's meals, following toilet etiquette, etc. Children learn to manage themselves and their lifestyles with repeated practice and develop critical life skills.

The Benefits Of Ekya Schools' Early Years Programme

  • Since the emphasis is on tangible (not abstract) learning, toddlers retain information.
  • With a personalised and differentiated curriculum, your child can learn and explore independently. 
  • Preschoolers learn age-appropriate socio-emotional skills that help them interact with peers and adults.
  • The importance of structures, routines, limits, and expectations is set with a fixed classroom timetable and school calendar. 
  • Teachers ask questions, hold discussions, and model activities that develop an understanding of respect, boundaries, and values. Once understood, children can imitate these values in different situations. 
  • Inside the classrooms, students can choose resources and activities and work on their terms. This facilitates the development of active imagination, creative thinking & expression.
  • Ekya Schools focus on major developmental milestones throughout the formative years. Children are involved in a range of activities. E.g., art & craft, reading, writing, music & movement, dance & drama, excursions, nature walks, cooking, fireless baking, pottery, puppetry, etc. These activities develop age-appropriate soft and motor skills. E.g., active listening, communication, leadership, literacy, numeracy, etc.
Choosing the Ekya Schools' Montessori programme can give your child a great start in life. Are you looking for the following: Click to discover why Ekya Schools is the best Montessori school in Bangalore.

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