Bombay Cambridge School integrated holistic development and vocational subjects into its curriculum long before the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 mandated them. The school focused on developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and practical skills.
The school’s entrepreneurship program allows students to develop and implement business proposals within the school. This initiative encourages learning beyond textbooks and aligns with the NEP’s goal of fostering innovative thinking.
Holistic Development and Skills Integration
Bombay Cambridge School’s educational philosophy prioritizes a child’s all-around development over mere marks. Skills like critical thinking and problem-solving are core components of their teaching methods. Vocational subjects, including coding and entrepreneurship, are already part of the curriculum.
The entrepreneurship program involves students developing business proposals and executing them. This practical experience helps students understand economic principles and management. The entire school community participates, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
Adapting to Post-Pandemic Challenges
The COVID-19 pandemic presented new challenges, including reduced student attention spans and social isolation. The school recognized the critical need for human interaction in learning.
Following the return to in-person learning, Bombay Cambridge School prioritized social-emotional development. A social-emotional learning curriculum was implemented. The school’s CARE centre, operational for 25 years, increased its activity to support students’ mental and emotional well-being.
Social-Emotional Learning Initiatives
Age-appropriate modules were developed for students from kindergarten to Class 10. Teachers, counselors, and special educators led classroom discussions to help students reintegrate and build social skills.
The balance between academics, sports, arts, and life skills became more crucial. Project-based learning was adopted to improve student engagement. Collaborative groups were formed with students of diverse strengths to promote peer learning and support.
Community Engagement and Feedback
The school emphasized empathy and community service. Students created items in art classes for donation to charitable organizations. Parents and local communities were involved in these initiatives.
Regular feedback and self-assessment were encouraged to counter the passive learning mindset developed during online schooling. Students provided feedback to teachers, fostering a closer student-teacher relationship. Peer support became a key element for students facing academic challenges.
Interdisciplinary and Experiential Learning
An interdisciplinary approach connects subjects to real-world applications. For example, economics concepts are linked to geography and English classes to demonstrate global economic interdependence.
The school invested in teachers and IT support during the pandemic. Professional development focused on teaching methodologies and classroom management. Study circles allowed teachers to collaborate across subjects, enhancing curriculum delivery.
Innovative Teaching Methods
Experiential learning examples include physical education teachers using a number line on the ground to teach mathematical integers. This hands-on approach reinforces conceptual understanding.
Academic gaps were addressed through extra sessions and active library spaces. Efforts were made to reduce excessive screen time, including offering parenting resources.
Students were involved in decision-making processes, with lesson plans adjusted based on their input. Teacher training focused on communication and student involvement skills.
Bombay Cambridge School’s consistent focus on balanced development means the NEP 2020 validated its existing philosophy rather than introducing a new one. The school continues to nurture well-rounded individuals prepared for life beyond examinations.