Cyclone Amphan affected schools in the South 24 Parganas. The cyclone also damaged laboratories in these schools. This situation necessitates investment in the renovation and upgrade of the affected labs. The initial discussion regarding the lab fund took place during pre-COVID times. The pandemic created issues in the disbursement at that time. Finally, the government has arranged for the implementation of the lab upgrade fund.

Consequently, the School Education Department of the Government of West Bengal aims to eliminate outdated tools in existing labs and move forward with the upgrade of practical facilities, while focusing on restoring labs that were bereft of capabilities due to the devastation caused by Cyclone Amphan.

Why Are Higher Secondary Lab Upgrades Necessary?

In classes 11 and 12, it is paramount to inculcate science students with a hunger for practical and hands-on learning in addition to theoretical lessons. Practical and theoretical education are equally important at the higher secondary level.

Class 11 practical lessons provide students with the first taste of experimentation. Scientific experimentation culminates in the production of experimental data, which determines the success or failure of the experiment. When students operate faulty, outdated, or improper equipment, it leads to false data capture, and consequent distaste for the faculties of science. To prevent such a misunderstanding of the subject, up-to-date and well-maintained lab equipment is crucial.

Optical bench by Labkafe

The long operation of optical benches and sonometers causes the loss of their calibrations and markings. Thus, the replacement of old equipment is extremely important.

Need for lab upgrades in schools across West Bengal

The lab equipment industry is constantly in flux, and new updates and tools are always on the horizon. Therefore, regularly updating labs exposes students to the latest technology, helping them compete with peers both nationally and internationally. Students with better laboratory exposure at the higher secondary level have a greater chance of competing with international students, especially when applying to elite universities abroad. This places the state of West Bengal, and by extension the nation, at the forefront of scientific education globally.

During Cyclone Amphan, multiple schools in the South 24 Parganas district suffered heavy damage. This laboratory grant will significantly help restore normalcy in schools across West Bengal, where prolonged property losses have disadvantaged students. The lab upgrades will allow them to receive practical lessons on par with those of schools across the state. 

Steps such as the allocation of grants, as recently seen by the Government of West Bengal, will augment the hard work of students and give them a much-needed edge over students from non-government schools, but only if the schools proceed with top-notch collaborations for their laboratories.

Lab Upgrade Solutions in West Bengal

When opting for upgrades, quality, durability, and dependability of the new equipment are of paramount importance. High-quality upgrades are extremely long-lasting, resulting in high returns on investment and minimal repair costs. Tough packaging is necessary for transport. The quality of glass and plastic items, such as test tubes and containers, plays an important role, as they often face exposure to flames or store hazardous chemicals like acids. To ensure student safety, schools need high-quality apparatus. High-quality equipment provides reliable calibration, security, and durability.

Model of the human torso by Labkafe

In addition to this, they produce reproducible results. This is important because students tend to refine their practical skills here, and then move on to board exams for final results. If students do not get optimum equipment to practice their skills, they won’t be able to perform well in final and board exams either. The school plays a key role in training students for exams and future endeavors.

Labkafe has readymade and customizable lab packages for higher secondary education, optimized for the West Bengal state education board. They provide durable, dependable, and reliable equipment that fulfill the needs of students and teachers alike. Get in touch with our lab experts today!

The post Lab Fund to Upgrade 1,000+ School Labs Across West Bengal appeared first on Labkafe Blog.

Fields Requiring Composite Skill Lab in Enhancing Learning

1. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)

Why Do They Need It?

The rapid advancements in STEM fields demand that students not only understand theoretical concepts but also engage in practical, hands-on learning. Therefore, Composite Skill Labs equipped with robotics kits, coding software, 3D printers, and electronic tools which provide students with the opportunity to bring their classroom lessons to life are a must.

Benefits

Students can build and program robots, design 3D models, and experiment with circuits, thereby developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovative skills.

Composite skill lab (creative visualization)

2. Arts and Design

Why They Need It

The role of a skill lab in enhancing learning is undeniable. Creativity is as important as technical knowledge in today’s world. Arts and Design fields such as graphic design, photography, music production, and filmmaking thrive in environments where students have access to the right tools and technologies.

Benefits

Composite Skill Labs enable students to explore their artistic talents and technical skills simultaneously, working on projects like digital art, filmmaking, and music composition, thus preparing them for careers in creative industries.

3. Vocational Skill Lab in Enhancing Learning

Why They Need It

The importance of vocational training in carpentry, plumbing, electrical wiring, and similar trades cannot be overstated, especially for students aiming for careers in these areas. 

Benefits

Composite Skill Labs provide the perfect setting for hands-on learning in these fields, therefore allowing students to practice and perfect their skills in a safe and controlled environment, which is crucial for their future job readiness.

4. Entrepreneurship

Why They Need It

Entrepreneurship education requires a unique environment where students can brainstorm, prototype, and develop business ideas. 

Benefits

In a Composite Skill Lab, students can access mentorship, market research tools, and collaborative spaces that are essential for nurturing entrepreneurial skills. Hence, activities like developing business plans, creating prototypes, and pitching ideas help in building a strong foundation for future business leaders.

5. Skill Labs Enhancing Learning in Health and Wellness

Why They Need It

Understanding health and wellness is vital for students, both personally and professionally. Whether it’s learning about nutrition, fitness, or mental health, practical experience in these areas is invaluable.

Benefits

Composite Skill Labs can be used to teach students how to prepare healthy meals, design fitness programs, and practice mindfulness. Therefore, labs also offer training in first aid, which is a crucial life skill.

6. Environmental Science and Sustainability

Why They Need It

As the world grapples with environmental challenges, educating students about sustainability is more important than ever. 

Benefits

The Composite Skill Lab is enhancing learning by equipping students with the tools to conduct experiments and projects related to ecology, renewable energy, and conservation, therefore making them aware of tools needed in environmental science research. In summary, this hands-on approach encourages students to become proactive in finding solutions to environmental problems.

7. Digital Literacy and Media Skill Labs

Why They Need It

In the digital age, media literacy and the ability to navigate the online world are essential skills. Therefore, students must learn how to create and share digital content responsibly and effectively.

Benefits

Composite Skill Labs, focused on digital literacy and media, provides resources for students to produce podcasts, create websites, in addition to engagement in safe online communication. These skills are critical in preparing students for the digital workforce in addition to inculcating responsible online behavior.

School lab constructed by Labkafe

In essence, the introduction of Composite Skill Labs marks a significant step forward in the educational journey of CBSE schools, one that promises to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in the 21st century.
Contact Labkafe’s team of experts for a free lab consultation for your schools.

The post How are Composite Skill Labs Enhancing Learning Across Multiple Disciplines? appeared first on Labkafe Blog.

About CBSE Composite Skill Labs – The New Initiative

The NEP 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) highlight the importance of incorporating skill subjects into the school curriculum. This integration provides students with practical skills in addition to traditional academic knowledge. The primary goal is to offer students opportunities to participate in real-world tasks and projects related to their chosen skills, effectively bridging the gap between theory and practice.

The Role of Labkafe in Supporting Skill Education

CBSE has taken a significant step towards promoting skill education by mandating the establishment of ‘Composite Skill Labs’ in all affiliated schools. This initiative, approved in the 139th meeting of the Governing Body of the Board, aims to provide students with the necessary resources and environment for effective skill development and hands-on learning experiences.

The CBSE Composite Skill Labs are designed to be comprehensive learning spaces equipped with modern tools and equipment. These labs will serve as hubs for students to explore various skills and engage in practical projects. By providing a conducive environment, CBSE aims to foster a culture of innovation and creativity among students.

Schools have the flexibility to choose between two setup options for the Composite Skill Labs:

• Single Lab: A single lab of 600 sq. ft. area can be established to cater to students from classes VI to XII
• Separate Labs: Two separate labs, each measuring 400 sq. ft., can be set up. One lab would be dedicated to students from classes VI to X, while the other would cater to students from classes XI to XII

Benefits of Labkafe’s CBSE Composite Skill Labs

The establishment of Composite Skill Labs is expected to yield several benefits for students:

• Practical Skill Development

Labkafe’s composite skill labs are equipped with state-of-the-art tools and equipment, enabling students to engage in practical tasks and projects. This hands-on approach helps students understand and apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios, fostering the development of industry-relevant skills.

• Holistic Education

Labkafe’s lab designs integrate skill education with traditional academics, offering a balanced learning environment that nurtures both hard and soft skills. Students can develop critical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills, essential for success in all areas of life.

• Enhanced Employability

By providing students with practical experience in a well-equipped lab environment, Labkafe helps schools prepare students for the job market. The exposure to real-world tools and techniques enhances students’ employability, giving them a competitive edge in various trades and vocations.

• Exploration of Diverse Career Pathways

With Labkafe’s comprehensive lab setups, students can explore different career pathways and identify their interests and strengths. This exposure to a range of skills and vocations allows them to make informed decisions about their future education and career paths.

Broader Impact of CBSE Composite Skill Labs

By equipping schools with the latest lab furniture and equipment, Labkafe supports CBSE’s commitment to providing students with the practical skills and knowledge they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world. This update is expected to significantly enhance the quality of education, ensuring that students are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the modern workforce.

Conclusion

The introduction of CBSE Composite Skill Labs marks a significant step towards enriching the educational landscape in India. By focusing on practical skill development, these labs are set to play a crucial role in shaping the future workforce, making education more relevant and impactful.

The post CBSE Composite Skill Labs by Labkafe: A New Era for Schools appeared first on Labkafe Blog.

About Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya

Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya (KGBV) in Pakur, Jharkhand, is a government-funded residential school providing quality education to underprivileged girls. Located in the rural heartland of Jharkhand, this school is committed to uplifting the educational standards of its students, ensuring they receive the same opportunities as those in more urban settings. Despite limited resources and infrastructure challenges, the school strives to deliver an engaging and comprehensive learning experience.

What is a Mini Science Lab?

Mini science labs offer a practical and economical solution for schools like KGBV that face budgetary constraints. These labs are designed to be compact and efficient, requiring less space and fewer resources than traditional laboratories. By eliminating the need for large, specialized facilities, schools can significantly reduce construction and maintenance costs.

It includes essential scientific instruments and equipment that allow students to perform a variety of science experiments, fostering hands-on learning in science subjects.

Benefits of a Mini Science Lab

1. Teaching Convenience

Unlike a traditional lab, which may require substantial space and specialised infrastructure, a mini science lab can be set up in a standard classroom. 

This flexibility allows teachers to seamlessly integrate practical experiments into their regular teaching schedule without the need to move students to a different location.

2. Cost-Effective

Mini science labs offer a practical and economical solution for schools like KGBV that face budgetary constraints. These labs are designed to be compact and efficient, requiring less space and fewer resources than traditional laboratories. 

By eliminating the need for large, specialized facilities, schools can significantly reduce construction and maintenance costs.

Additionally, mini-science labs often utilize repurposed materials or low-cost alternatives for equipment, further minimizing expenses. This affordability allows schools to provide students with valuable hands-on learning experiences without breaking the bank.

3. Engagement and Accessibility

The mini science lab enhances the way students engage with science. By bringing the laboratory experience directly to them, it makes practical learning more accessible and interactive. This is especially valuable in schools where limited space or resources might otherwise hinder hands-on experimentation. 

With a mini science lab, students can conduct experiments more frequently and independently, fostering a deeper understanding of scientific concepts.

4. Versatility

Mini science labs are designed to be adaptable and versatile, including a wide range of scientific disciplines. Equipped with multi-purpose tools and equipment, these mini science labs can support experiments in biology, chemistry, and physics. 

This versatility enables students to explore various scientific concepts and develop a well-rounded understanding of the natural world. By breaking down the barriers between traditionally separate subjects, mini labs foster interdisciplinary learning and encourage students to see connections between different scientific fields.

The Results

The introduction of the mini science lab at Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya was met with overwhelming enthusiasm. The teachers were thrilled to see a variety of teaching aids, ranging from microscopes to interactive models, that would significantly enhance their ability to explain complex science concepts. This setup promises to make teaching not only easier but also more effective, enabling teachers to bring textbook theories to life.

The students were equally excited. The entire setup fascinated them, sparking curiosity and a newfound eagerness to participate in lab sessions. Practical learning was never such fun for them, and they eagerly anticipated their first hands-on experiments in the new lab.

Impact of Mini Science Lab on Learning

The feedback from the teachers was overwhelmingly positive. They expressed confidence that this new setup would transform lab sessions into more engaging and interactive experiences. The mini science lab is expected to foster a deeper understanding of scientific concepts among students, making learning more immersive and enjoyable.

In conclusion, the mini science lab at Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya is not just a project but a significant step towards enhancing educational opportunities for underprivileged girls in Pakur, Jharkhand. By providing a practical and engaging learning environment, this initiative is helping to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application, ensuring that students are better prepared for future academic pursuits.

Contact our team of experts for a Free Mini Science Lab Setup Consultation.

The post Labkafe’s Mini Science Lab in Jharkhand [Case Study] appeared first on Labkafe Blog.

The Need for Skill Education

The NEP 2020 and NCF-SE (National Curriculum Framework for School Education) emphasize the importance of integrating skill subjects into the school curriculum. This integration aims to equip students with practical skills alongside traditional academic knowledge. The focus is on providing students with opportunities to engage in real-world tasks and projects related to their chosen skills, thereby bridging the gap between theory and practice.

One of the primary objectives of integrating skill subjects is to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Traditional education often focuses on theoretical concepts, leaving students with limited opportunities to apply their knowledge in practical settings. By incorporating skill subjects into the curriculum, students can engage in real-world tasks and projects related to their chosen skills, gaining valuable hands-on experience and developing problem-solving abilities.

Enhancing Skill Development with Composite Skill Labs

CBSE has taken a significant step towards promoting skill education by mandating the establishment of ‘Composite Skill Labs’ in all affiliated schools. This initiative, approved in the 139th meeting of the Governing Body of the Board, aims to provide students with the necessary resources and environment for effective skill development and hands-on learning experiences.

The Composite Skill Labs are designed to be comprehensive learning spaces equipped with modern tools and equipment. These labs will serve as hubs for students to explore various skills and engage in practical projects. By providing a conducive environment, CBSE aims to foster a culture of innovation and creativity among students.

Schools have the flexibility to choose between two setup options for the Composite Skill Labs:

• Single Lab: A single lab of 600 sq. ft. area can be established to cater to students from classes VI to XII
• Separate Labs: Two separate labs, each measuring 400 sq. ft., can be set up. One lab would be dedicated to students from classes VI to X, while the other would cater to students from classes XI to XII

Benefits of Composite Skill Labs for Student

The establishment of Composite Skill Labs is expected to yield several benefits for students:

• Practical Skill Development

Students get the opportunity to engage in practical tasks and projects, which helps them understand and apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. By working with actual equipment and tools, students can develop and refine specific skills that are relevant to various trades and vocations.

• Holistic Education

Integrating skill education with traditional academics provides a more balanced and comprehensive education. Students develop a range of soft skills, including communication, collaboration, and critical thinking, which are valuable in all aspects of life.

• Enhanced Employability

By acquiring practical skills through hands-on training in the labs, students will be better prepared for the job market. They will have a competitive edge and increased employability prospects in various trades and vocations.

• Exploration of Diverse Career Pathways

The labs will provide students with opportunities to explore different career pathways and identify their interests and strengths. This will help them make informed decisions about their future education and career paths.

• Fostering Entrepreneurial Capabilities

The labs can also serve as incubators for entrepreneurial ventures. By providing students with the tools and resources to develop their ideas, CBSE aims to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship among the younger generation.

Broader Impact and Future Directions

The initiative is expected to significantly impact the quality of education by providing students with practical skills aligned with industry needs. It encourages schools to offer a wider range of skill subjects, thereby providing students with more choices and opportunities to explore their interests and talents.

CBSE’s commitment to enhancing skill education through this initiative reflects a broader vision of preparing students for the future. By equipping them with practical skills and knowledge, CBSE aims to create a more skilled and capable workforce, ready to meet the challenges of the modern world.

The post How to Enhance Skill Education in CBSE Schools? appeared first on Labkafe Blog.

In this blog, let’s discover the complete process of Building Composite Skill Labs in CBSE Schools

What is Composite Skill Lab?

Composite Skill Labs are specialized educational spaces within CBSE-affiliated schools, aimed at providing students with practical, real-world skills. These labs are essential for offering training that is closely aligned with industry requirements. This improves students’ employment prospects and encourages exploration of diverse career pathways.

Common Areas of Focus in Composite Skill Labs:

• STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics): Labs may include facilities for robotics, coding, 3D printing, and electronics
• Arts and Design: Labs may be equipped for graphic design, photography, music production, and film-making.
• Vocational Skills: Labs may offer training in carpentry, plumbing, electrical wiring, or other practical skills.
• Entrepreneurship: Labs may provide opportunities for students to develop business plans, create prototypes, and learn about entrepreneurship.

By providing students with a well-rounded education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, Composite Skill Labs play a vital role in preparing them for a successful future.

What are Skill Lab Requirements?

• Lab Size: Schools can either set up one Composite Skill Lab of 600 sq ft or two separate labs of 400 sq ft each.
• Target Audience: One lab is designed for classes 6-12, or two separate labs for classes 6-10 and 11-12

• Affiliation Requirement: New CBSE schools must establish these labs to gain affiliation while existing schools have a three-year window to comply with the requirement
• Equipment: Labs must be equipped with all necessary machinery and tools relevant to the skills being taught.

Building Composite Skill Labs in Schools

Building a composite skill lab in a school involves several key steps, from planning and design to implementation and integration. 

1. Assess Educational Needs and Goals

Determine the skills and competencies the lab should support, such as STEM education, creative arts, digital literacy, or collaborative problem-solving. This helps in designing a lab that is both practical and inspiring.

2. Designing the Space

Design a space that can be easily reconfigured for different activities, such as science experiments, robotics, art projects, and group work. Modular furniture and movable partitions can help achieve this flexibility.

Create distinct zones within the lab for different types of activities—wet areas for chemistry, dry areas for electronics and robotics, and creative corners for design and arts.

WhatsApp Labkafe’s team of experts for a free lab consultation

3. Teacher Training

Provide ongoing professional development for teachers to effectively use the lab’s resources and integrate them into their curricula. Training should cover both technical skills and interdisciplinary teaching methods.

4. Ongoing Maintenance: 

Establish a maintenance plan to keep the lab’s equipment and facilities in good condition. Regularly update the tools and technology to stay current with educational trends.

5. Future Expansion

Plan for future expansions or upgrades to the lab as the school’s needs evolve. This could include adding new technology, increasing space, or introducing new disciplines.

What Equipment Are Needed For the Skill Lab?

The equipment needed for skill labs can be decided based on the purpose of the lab:

1. Basic Infrastructure: Ensure the lab is equipped with essential utilities like power outlets, water supply, ventilation, and internet connectivity

2. Tools and Equipment: Invest in versatile, durable equipment that serves multiple purposes. For example, 3D printers, computers with design software, microscopes, and robotics kits

3. Safety Equipment: Install necessary safety features, including fire extinguishers, first aid kits, eyewash stations, and protective gear. Clear safety instructions should be prominently displayed.

4. Digital Tools: Incorporate digital tools and software that facilitate learning across disciplines, such as coding platforms, simulation software, and interactive whiteboards.

5. Smart Classroom Features: Implement smart classroom technology to enhance learning, such as projectors, audio systems, and learning management systems (LMS) for managing student work.

Conclusion

The introduction of Composite Skill Labs marks a significant step towards enriching the educational landscape in India. By focusing on practical skill development, these labs are set to play a crucial role in shaping the future workforce, making education more relevant and impactful.

Contact our experts for a Free Composite Lab Design Consultation.

The post A Complete Guide to Building Composite Skill Labs in CBSE Schools appeared first on Labkafe Blog.

What is this New Initiative?

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) highlight the importance of incorporating skill subjects into the school curriculum. This integration is designed to provide students with practical skills in addition to traditional academic knowledge. The primary goal is to offer students opportunities to participate in real-world tasks and projects related to their chosen skills. This effectively bridges the gap between theory and practice.

The Role of Labkafe in Supporting Skill Education

CBSE has taken a significant step towards promoting skill education by mandating the establishment of ‘Composite Skill Labs’ in all affiliated schools. This initiative, approved in the 139th meeting of the Governing Body of the Board, aims to provide students with the necessary resources and environment for effective skill development and hands-on learning experiences.

The Composite Skill Labs are designed to be comprehensive learning spaces equipped with modern tools and equipment. These labs will serve as hubs for students to explore various skills and engage in practical projects. By providing a conducive environment, CBSE aims to foster a culture of innovation and creativity among students.

Schools have the flexibility to choose between two setup options for the Composite Skill Labs:

• Single Lab: A single lab of 600 sq. ft. area can be established to cater to students from classes VI to XII
• Separate Labs: Two separate labs, each measuring 400 sq. ft., can be set up. One lab would be dedicated to students from classes VI to X, while the other would cater to students from classes XI to XII.

Benefits of Labkafe’s Composite Skill Labs

The establishment of Composite Skill Labs is expected to yield several benefits for students:

1. Practical Skill Development

Labkafe’s composite skill labs are equipped with state-of-the-art tools and equipment. This enables students to engage in practical tasks and projects. The hands-on approach helps students understand and apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. This fosters the development of industry-relevant skills.

2. Holistic Education

Labkafe’s lab designs integrate skill education with traditional academics, offering a balanced learning environment that nurtures both hard and soft skills. Students can develop critical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills, essential for success in all areas of life.

3. Enhanced Employability

By providing students with practical experience in a well-equipped lab environment, Labkafe helps schools prepare students for the job market. The exposure to real-world tools and techniques enhances students’ employability, giving them a competitive edge in various trades and vocations.

4. Exploration of Diverse Career Pathways

With Labkafe’s comprehensive lab setups, students can explore different career pathways and identify their interests and strengths. This exposure to a range of skills and vocations allows them to make informed decisions about their future education and career paths.

Broader Impact and Future Directions

By equipping schools with the latest lab furniture and equipment, Labkafe supports CBSE’s commitment to providing students with the practical skills and knowledge they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world. This update is expected to significantly enhance the quality of education, ensuring that students are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the modern workforce.

Contact our experts for a Free Composite Lab Consultation.

The post Labkafe’s Composite Skill Labs: A New Era in CBSE Schools appeared first on Labkafe Blog.

What is CSR Fund

CSR full form is Corporate Social Responsibility, which is a broad term encompassing a company’s beneficial actions towards the society and the planet altogether. According to CSR rules (varies from country to country), a company must reserve a small part of their profits in a CSR fund. Then they can use this fund to finance various projects that benefit the society, the planet, or donate it to a national relief fund. 

The basic idea behind corporate social responsibility is that since a business is profiting so much from the people and the planet, they should give some of that profit to benefit those same people and planet. It is only fair to invest in developing the soil that you got rich off. Plus, it makes you popular as well.

A CSR fund is an excellent opportunity for a large business to give back to people while boosting their brand presence. It varies from company to company and industry to industry, but in general a business will have to reserve some of its profits as a social responsibility fund, and then pass it on to fund some sort of activity that benefits the society or the planet or people in some way.

The phrase ‘corporate social responsibility’ is very hard to define precisely. In general it is a wide concept covering a business’s actions towards improving the world. It means that the business engages in activities that are economically, socially and environmentally sustainable and beneficial.

A business may have four zones of corporate social responsibility, as follows:

• Philanthropic responsibility: funding educational programs, health initiatives, community improvement, local infrastructure, supporting causes such as anti-war rally, etc. 
• Human rights responsibility: fair labor, fair trade, abolish child labor, equial rights, and so on.
• Environmental responsibility: sustainable use of natural resources, reduce carbon footprint, reduce pollution, and make the world healthier.
• Economic responsibility: engaging in various business practices that are economically beneficial and sustainable.

Why Should A Business Do CSR

Apart from the fact that it has become compulsory nowadays by national law, the reality is undeniable that giving back makes one popular. Indeed, the benefits of CSR are significant enough that some of the corporate giants actually spend more than their fair share required by law in CSR activities. The benefits of practicing corporate social responsibility include:

• Better brand presence: A company’s corporate reputation skyrockets with CSR activities. A person who donates or helps often is universally a popular person.
• Better customer loyalty: if they know that you are supporting a good cause, your customers will prefer you over your competitors. Cash in that goodwill!
• Better employee loyalty: Employees like a firm which puts their hard work for good causes. It becomes more effective in case of talented and key employees who take an active interest in the company’s culture.
• Better funding opportunities: Investors too like the fact that their patron engages in CSR activities. Dedicating money, resources, and time for a good cause impresses everybody.
• Better oiling the machine: A business with a good CSR reputation will have a better recognition by regulatory authorities as well.

The key takeaway here is that CSR funding helps both the society and the brand itself. It is a great way to raise morale in office and awareness outside. The CSR business model lets the company make a concentrated effort to enhance rather than degrade the society and environment on which they thrive.

CSR Fund Rules and Regulations

CSR is an universal concept and is internationally practiced. The United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights 2011 clearly states that businesses must respect human rights and pay due diligence in their activities. However, it is not clear what ‘due diligence’ means ‒ so, it is better to employ the help of lawyers to find out the scope of the CSR activities in a country before implementing CSR funds.

In India, as per the section 135 of the Companies Act 2013, every company bigger than 500 crores of net worth (or making more than a thousand crore per year) have to implement CSR funds. India happens to be the first country to have made this mandatory for private sector companies. 

The amount to be deposited in this fund depends upon many considerations, but at a minimum a business has to spend 2% of their profits (calculated on the average of the last 3 years) on CSR activities each year. It is worth noting that some companies spend as high as 5-7%. 

Any unspent CSR fund of a financial year will be absorbed by the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund.

Flux of CSR Funding in India

As per the reports of various high level committees investigating CSR activities of companies operating in India, ever since its inception most major businesses are quite attracted to the idea. Only in five years, the total amount of CSR funds have grown up to a hundred thousand crores. Many top-level companies are voluntarily spending more than their required 2% of profits. 

The best year so far has been 2015-16, when companies managed to spend 85% of their profits. About half of that came from the top 2% companies. NGOs were responsible for spending a majority of the budget, but businesses themselves implemented CSR spending activities as well.

According to data, companies like to spend locally. Over half of CSR projects go to local area development projects where the company densely operates. There were major donations to various relief funds and to the Swachh Bharat Program too. 

Top CSR Fund Company List in India

As per the companies act it is now mandatory for all large companies to contribute to their CSR funds. However, some companies do it better than others. Here is a list of top 20 companies in India contributing to corporate social responsibility.

1. Reliance
2. TCS
3. HDFC (bank)
4. ONGC
5. Infosys
6. ITC
7. Indian Oil
8. NTPC
9. Power Grid Corporation
10. Hindustan Zinc
11. HCL
12. Tata Steel
13. ICICI
14. HDFC (finance)
15. Mahanadi Coalfields
16. Wipro
17. JSW Steel
18. Hindustan Unilever
19. Power Finance Corporation
20. L&T

These and other companies are contributing to the development of the nation through various donations, projects, and initiatives. 

How to Use Unspent CSR Funds

In section 135 as stated previously, there are several focus areas notified as to where you can spend your CSR fund. Obviously, you can let an NGO take care of it and do some good in your name. That is all well and good, but it’s not that popular. What’s more interesting is that most of the CSR activities tend to converge towards working in the education sector. Just look at the following list of educational projects taken up by major corporations.

• Reliance Industries: Reliance Foundation Education, Sports For All, Digital Learning Van, Dhirubhai Ambani Scholarship, and more. Estimated spend: 527 crores.
• NTPC: NTPC Utkarsh Scholarship, mobile science labs, providing computers to classes VII-X. Estimated spend: 132 crores.
• Wipro: Systemic Reforms in School Education, education for children with disabilities, Wipro Earthian, Azim Premji University, Santoor Women’s Scholarship, WASE/WiSTA STEM learning. Estimated spend: 124 crores.
• Infosys: Free meals for BPL children in Bannerghatta, Avanti Fellows, Spark-IT programme. Estimated spend: 95 crores.
• Mahanadi Coalfields: Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, various improvements at poor primary and lower secondary level schools. Estimated spend: 69 crores.
• Tata Steel: 1000 Schools Project in Jharkhand. Estimated spend: 67 crores.
• Hindustan Zinc: Project Khushi, Nand Ghar, Shiksha Sambal, Jeevan Tarang, Yashad Sumedha, Women’s Scholarship at Vedanta Girls’ College. Estimated spend: 51 crores.
• HDFC bank: HDFC Parivartan, Project Disha, ECSS, Navachar Pustika, 3T programme. Estimated spend: 48 crores.
• Mahindra & Mahindra: Mahindra United World College, Project Nanhi Kali, Mahindra Pride. Estimated spend: 40 crores.
• TCS: ALP, Launchpad, Project InsighT, Lab on Bike, CBFL software. Estimated spend: 36 crores.

From the above, it is conclusive that it makes more sense to invest CSR funds in the education sector, directly or indirectly. Indeed, according to  IndiaTimes , companies plan to increase spending of CSR funds in skilling and education in 2022-23. 

Nearly 7 out of 10 companies express interest in the education sector as far as their CSR funds are concerned. Close to half of that are also planning to invest in women empowerment, gender equality and other equality issues, old age homes, and similar projects. However, some of the latter would still dedicate some of their funds towards education. 

The reason for that? Let’s explore!

Why Dedicate CSR Funds to Educational Projects

The educational system in India, as a whole, is subpar. Our success rates are way below what it should be for a growing country like us. Every year, millions of students drop out of school, especially in rural, underprivileged areas. Why? Because, they are simply more productive at home than in school. Poverty and social and economic insecurity force children to get into work before completing their education in the majority of cases.

Large businesses can do wonders in this scenario.

At the moment, education should be the biggest priority of our nation. It builds a national backbone, creates more opportunities, prevents wasting into political cadreship or antisocial activities. When performed holistically, it creates a people so enlightened that they leave behind all dogma and go forward to create an advanced nation. This is every learned person’s dream. 

But that requires a lot of work. Social entrepreneurship requires a lot of administrative and organizational clout. Large businesses are experts at that. They know how to plan a project and run it. They can invest their management expertise for the greater good. And of course, they can pay for the projects from their CSR fund. Therefore, investing into education feels more natural to large corporations. 

Education and skill development are two most prominent avenues defined in section 135 about where to spend CSR funds. Philanthropy is something a business generally never thinks about, but it is actually a critical component. Engaging volunteers from your army of workers into community service is a great way to build connections within and outside the company. It builds stronger bonds, advertises your brand by word-of-mouth, and helps out those in need. It is a win-win for everyone!

There are different levels of engagement a company may prefer with CSR activities. Some may want to just donate the CSR funds to an NGO and let them do the legwork. Some may want to donate products or services to a school. Some may give volunteers to support a cause. And a few of the large organizations can actually create and organize projects that affect hundreds if not thousands of people’s lives directly. For a small example, Infosys runs a project for providing free meals to children in small schools in the Bannerghatta region. 

To be precise, a company can adopt one of the following three models to carry out CSR activities: 

• Programme ownership
• Funding provider
• Partnership in implementation 

A business can choose to work in any of these modes with CSR, or in case of larger concerns, can adopt all three models. Most of the large companies stated above work in a mix-and-match way. 

What does a company get out of it? A lot. First and foremost, the wholesomeness of helping out somebody’s education is undeniable ‒ it is one of the noblest forms of charity and social work, with far-reaching consequences. The sheer ‘feelgoodness’ of it helps you keep a clean and bright public face.  

Secondly, think about it from a marketing perspective. When your brand sponsors a child’s education, when your brand becomes the reason someone is successful in life, you gain a dedicated volunteer spokesperson for your brand. They will nigh worship your brand and do word-of-mouth advertisement for free. 

Thirdly, your employees will love your company if they go larger than life this way. Most people have depressing thoughts like “What does my hard work matter? Is it just to make profits?” With community services, you can show your employees that they are serving a better purpose than just money. It works even better if you can pick volunteers from every room ‒ they will provide entertainment and dreamy break times, spreading their fieldwork stories. It would immensely help building your company culture and cohesiveness. 

Enter Labkafe: Your Friendly CSR Guide

Practical education is still swallowed by uncertainty in this country, in most places. In rural areas especially, there is scarcely any hands-on education to speak of. Labkafe intends to change that, root and stem. We envision bringing affordable practical education to every child in India. 

But we need your help to get that far.

Spending your CSR funds for building school laboratories is an excellent idea. First, this is the way to build a skilled workforce for tomorrow ‒ god knows we have plenty of need for that. There are too many MBAs but few good mechanics with official training. In other countries, most technicians and hands-on workers are properly passed and licensed from some vocational schools. Here? Bunch of learn-on-the-job tired people with no imagination or innovation. How about we change that?

Sponsoring a chain of schools for their laboratories can make a business famous ‒ more than they already are. But are you wondering how? Don’t worry. Labkafe can take care of the legwork for you. 

Labkafe has been in the laboratory building business for over seven years. As such, we are networked within a huge web of government and public schools from all over the country. We can gather CSR partnership from any state, any district, and mediate the proceedings. 

Together, Labkafe and You can make a difference. 

The post How to Wisely Invest Your CSR Fund ‒ CSR Funded Educational Projects appeared first on Labkafe Blog.

The success of any school depends heavily on attracting more and more students ‒ especially early on near the foundation of the institution. At the core of that there should be a great marketing strategy that understands the target market and acts accordingly. Today, we will talk about how to bring more students to school. Read on to know more about how to increase enrollment and how to increase admission in school.

To be frank, marketing for schools is not that much different from marketing for other services. At the beginner level, all you have to do is to stick to the basics of marketing. Which are:

• Clearly define the value of your product or service.
• Research who your target audience is and how best to reach them.
• Throw your value proposition at this target market using your marketing campaigns.

Now, what does that mean for a school? Let’s explore.

Defining your product value

The best way to begin your strategy to bring more students to your school is to start by defining the advantages of joining your school. Identify what makes you unique, and what should attract students (and parents). Every school is different with different history and culture ‒ and so define yours. Some unique factors in your school could be:

1. Your faculty ‒ what about the people who make up the school, who shall be in constant contact with the students all the time?
2. Your students ‒ yes, they are marketing resources too! What makes them special, and what are they doing better than most others?
3. How about having a famous sports team or winning a math marathon?
4. If your school is religious in nature, what values and virtues does it teach?
5. What is the culture of your school? Tie it up with point #4.
6. Learning techniques ‒ does your school use any special approaches that you can boast about? Like a state-of-the-art laboratory or a science park?
7. Technology usage ‒ in the information era, the more modern a school is in terms of technology, the more attractive it will be.
8. Special programs ‒ does your school offer the advantages of a special learning opportunity? It may be within or after the course.
9. Placement assist ‒ if applicable, how much guarantee will you give to place your students in the job market?
10. Finance ‒ in the end, money is the biggest deciding factor. What financial assistance are you giving? What are you giving for FREE?

Find your target market

You are offering a precise service useful only to a certain section of the population. Therefore, figuring out the perfect demographic for your marketing strategy is paramount, or else you’ll be preaching to the wrong crowd. Start with the basics of demography, like,

• Age group ‒ which age people should you target.
• Physical location ‒ shouldn’t they be located locally? 
• Gender ‒ applicable if your school is hosting only one gender.

Add to this some advanced concerns of your customers:

• What are their life goals, and what are they looking for as the outcome of this education?
• Do they have a dominant reason to choose your school over another (like locality)?
• Do they fulfill the prerequisites for admission to your school?
• What income group are their families and how can they pay for their education?

Buyer Personas

A very important factor comes here in the form of buyer personas. Buyer personas are detailed imaginary personal profiles you create for your standard customer. It will include as much pertinent information about the imaginary person as possible, like past education and family culture and political leaning and food habits, and even when do they go to sleep and how much time they spend on Facebook.

This detailed profile will help you and all other stakeholders to understand your customers quickly and help enormously in decision-making. Obviously, there are many kinds of people with many backgrounds, and so you may have to build two-three personas ‒ for example, one for each stakeholder member of the family. Like, one persona of the prospective student, one persona for his/her father, and one for the mother. Then you will know the life and habits of each of them and you can target them individually, taking a holistic approach to generating a lead.

To do this efficiently, proper market research is necessary. If you have the budget for it, your best bet is to get an agency to do the market survey for you. Otherwise, you can do it by brainstorming with your staff and do it by trial-and-error, but that doesn’t guarantee much good in the result.

Build school marketing campaigns

Depending upon your school’s scope and your target market, your market strategy may differ a lot. But for a standard case, the following marketing strategies give good ROI (Return On Investment).

Word-of-mouth marketing

It may sound dusty and rusty for the new-age school principal, but don’t ignore the power of word of mouth. Ask for referrals. Utilize those elements of your school that are directly connected to the community, like existing students, teachers, non-teaching staff, parents even. Let them tell the story about your school and inform the community about your culture, your courses, your certifications, and programs. This self-run method of marketing is awesomely targeted and gets great results if you can do it enough.

Digital marketing

This is the digital era and most of your target audience will be online. Therefore, your website is one of the best channels of generating more enrollment. Do make sure your school website is not just an information page, but is actually designed to generate interest in your school. Also ensure your website is created with mobile users in mind, for obvious reasons.

Once you get a proper website up, it is time to promote that website in the proper circles. Make sure your site offers interesting information regularly via a blog or social media (or both, preferably). Get an agency to do SEO (Search Engine Optimization) to stay on top of the search page. You may be sure that your competitor already sitting on top of the search result page is indubitably doing it. 

One of the easiest ways to get to the top of the google search results page is to use PPC (Pay Per Click) advertising. It does cost you a pretty penny, but it will give you great results if done expertly.

Social Media Marketing

Everybody is on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, etc. these days. Your target audience ‒ especially the younger generation ‒ spends a big chunk of their day on social media. And that’s why you should target that time as much as possible. Figure out what they do all that time on each platform, and post interesting stuff with your school name in those areas. Much like erecting a banner on the road, your social posts should be right where eyeballs go most. 

One of the best ways to do effective social media marketing is to spread user-generated content out there. Do encourage your staff and students and parents to write about or take pictures inside the school and facilities, and share them on their own profiles and in various pertinent groups they have. 

Don’t forget to show off your school on social media. Make sure your social media profiles ‒ especially on LinkedIn ‒ are well optimized and full of bright and interesting posts about your school, culture, events, facilities, etc. Just get the message out that what a heaven this place is for the students and that will be a great hook. 

Offline Marketing

Don’t ignore the power of traditional marketing methods now that we’re in the digital era. Roadside advertisements, commercial media ads, and even leaflets and handbills work well in increasing brand awareness and generating leads. Just make sure your content for all this is powerful and engaging, and pushes your selling points powerfully across verticals. 

Email & Post Marketing

Few marketing strategies work better than the direct approach BTL (Below-the-Line) marketing. If you have a good list of potential customers, then why not reach out and make a personal touch? Use email marketing and send old-fashioned posts with brochures attached. This will require some expense but gives good, personal-level connects which are very valuable. And you know what, some people in fact prefer it this way ‒ they don’t like the impersonal nature of advertisements.

Public Events

Participating in or organizing public events is a great way to increase the reputation and generate more leads. You can join existing prestigious and popular competitions, seminars, online events, etc., or if budget permits, create your own. Do remember to offer some incentives to the attendees, and do make sure your event offers something worth their time. If you are able to feature something or someone particularly notorious in these events, then your school’s reputation and popularity will skyrocket in a night.

Tips to get more students for your school

Make sure your facilities are top-notch

It is a no-brainer that to sell a product successfully, the product itself has to be really good. The same goes for school education as well. Your teaching will depend upon the faculties, of course, but other than that, make sure you can dazzle parents with your school facilities. Your library should be comfy and well-stocked, your laboratories should be futuristic and perfectly equipped, your sports facilities should be spacious and healthy, and so on and so forth.

• Learn how to build a proper CBSE/ICSE lab .

Don’t forget your existing students

Just because they have already bought your pitch doesn’t mean your work with your present students and their parents have finished! Make sure your present clientele hears from you regularly. Make sure that these communications are valuable. And for the love of god, don’t communicate once a year just to ask for more money!

Instead, find out what is valuable to them and find ways to offer them that. It can be something directly or indirectly related to school, no matter, as long as they see that you do care for their needs they will remain impressed with you. An impressed customer is a loyal customer and will work for free to get more customers for you voluntarily.

Make the best offer in the market

Yes yes, you are enlightening the community, building the educational backbone of the nation, and all that ‒ but at the end of the day, by sober reckoning, you are still only doing business. And only that business grows which makes the best offer in the market. To that end, make sure your offer is SUBSTANTIAL as compared to your nearest competitors. 

Your pricing strategy and your products are what are going to give you that competitive edge, when expertly managed. You can become a haven for the LIG (Lower Income Group) with your radically low fee structure, or you can offer awesome scholarships and placement opportunities. There are plenty more to explore here, and your limit is your imagination.

Get some testimonials

People love references from other people. They have a strong urge to believe reviews they read online. And they do not trust things with no reviews and testimonials. Why not take advantage of this fact and build on people’s trusting nature? Get some good testimonials up and running on your website, emails, social media posts, brochures, etc. 

Numbers work magic

If you are dealing with MIG and HIG parents most, you are encountering parents who are very analytical customers and just love data. So make sure all your customer-facing media has lots of nice-looking statistics on them. Throwing juicy fat numbers at customers is a good way to hook them. 

For example, think about speakers. When you want one, don’t you first look for its wattage? And this number is what makes and breaks most speaker sales. The same principle works for schools as well. Let prospective students and their parents know about your school capacity, existing student number, graduation rates, and other KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) and you will be sure to impress a lot of good minds out there.

In a nutshell

Getting a good school filled is a big task that has to be approached thoughtfully and through multiple avenues of marketing and internal work. The key to success here is to punch a really good infrastructure and service with good old offline marketing and the new-era online marketing strategies. 

Figure out who should hear you and make them offers they cannot resist, in the most enticing manner you can think of. Repeat your USPs (Unique Selling Points) in front of multiple audiences, through multiple channels. Pay attention and further offer opportunities to your existing students. Combining all, your school will bring in new enrollments so much that soon you will eventually get to pick and choose your students.

Image courtesy: pixabay

The post How do you bring more students to school | Labkafe appeared first on Labkafe Blog.

There is a new wave coming from across the world, and we expect it to sweep off the existing education system and build a new order. This is the Cambridge curriculum and today we will discuss how to implement it for Indian schools. This new education system is recognized and preferred by most of the reputed universities and institutes around the world. And it’s coming to your doorstep now!

So, what is the Cambridge curriculum anyway? It is a very well-recognized system of education that any school can implement without disturbing the influence of the local culture and yet deliver students capable of entering any university across the globe. The “Cambridge Pathway” aims to internationalize the education system at the undergraduate level. It is well-known and accepted in most universities, institutes, and leading businesses. 

The Cambridge curriculum has grown out of a British system of education, which divides the system into four parts ‒ Cambridge Primary, Cambridge lower secondary, Cambridge upper secondary, and Cambridge advanced. Together, they are called the Cambridge Pathway ‒ for a child to grow into a responsible, skillful, world-worthy worker and citizen.

A highly flexible and adaptive system, the Cambridge curriculum lets you pursue your local boards of education but also implement the Cambridge pathway. Both inspiring and challenging, it rewards students with an inquisitive mind and helps the more challenged ones to grow personally and think on their own.

20 Questions to Ask Before Building the Cambridge Curriculum

To accomplish anything, you have to ask the right questions to yourself (or the working body). To build a Cambridge curriculum is no different either. Here are some pertinent questions for your meeting table when you decide to go the Cambridge way. These questions assume that the school is offering an existing qualification (like CBSE, ICSE, or similar) already and wants to upgrade to an international level.

1. What is your goal? What social, personal, and academic outcomes do you expect out of your syllabus?
2. What skills will this curriculum grant to the students?
3. Is this curriculum capable of motivating, engaging, and challenging the students? How?
4. Which Cambridge subjects and programs will you include in your curriculum?
5. If selected, how will the above work with the existing curriculum in your institute?
6. How will you implement local and national culture into the curriculum?
7. The Cambridge curriculum is a highly English-dependent system. Which subjects will you teach in English? If your students don’t have fluency in understanding, speaking, and writing English, how do you plan to support them?
8. Does the curriculum make progression from one level to another a fluid process, or are there gaps that need to be filled?
9. What is your detailed plan of assessment procedure for this curriculum?
10. Will the teachers need any special training to teach this syllabus? How do you plan to give them that support? And how will you determine that they stay on track afterwards?
11. Do you have an effective governance and teaching structure in place to handle the new load? Or if not, then what should that structure be?
12. How will you measure the impact of your curriculum, and how will you know that your students are actually learning things, irrespective of exam results?
13. Do you have any inter-school network through which the administration and the teachers can take help with this curriculum?
14. How much of this curriculum will be learned in theoretical classes and how much will be learned from hands-on practical classes?
15. How many hours will be spent studying which particular subjects at different levels? And how much of that time shall be divided between theory and practical sessions?
16. Does the school have a proper laboratory setup like  lab furniture and  lab equipment to cover the hands-on learning part of this curriculum?
17. Does the curriculum offer elective subjects? Can the school balance the resource requirements for a prediction of electives that may be taken by the students?
18. How does the community interact with this curriculum? Would the students have opportunities to involve with the community/society through this?
19. Can external groups make any contributions to the curriculum? Conversely, can your students perform in any outreach program serving the community?
20. What facilities do you require to fulfill the learning environment needs for the specialist subjects in this curriculum?

Answering all of the above questions satisfactorily is the key to building a Cambridge curriculum for your school. Your school should meet all the requirements as mentioned above and then have some breathing space for the future.

Basic Principles for a Successful Cambridge Curriculum Design

Consistency

The thing you need to remember here is that the Cambridge curriculum does not work in a one-size-fits-all kind of way. The various schools taking up this curriculum operate in a wide variety and scope, such is its flexibility. School leaders must remember that a fluid continuity is the key to this learning system. 

Therefore, they should not only consider exactly which subjects a student should study every year, but also that there should be a clear path of consistent progression during the student’s career ‒ be it in any specialization. Each level change should feel natural and unjarring to the students, and they should not have to go out of their way to learn new subjects.

Vision and Mission

The values and aims of your school should match perfectly with your curriculum design. If, for example, your objective is to build a more skilled workforce for the country, then your Cambridge curriculum should mix a lot of hands-on learning with a good dose of local and national culture. However, if you foresee your students spreading all over the world, then your curriculum should include more topics covering international cooperation and how the world is bound together in life, in business, and in politics. Anyway, your choice of subjects and activities should be holistic to your objectives.

Quality over Quantity

A natural question comes when deciding on any course curriculum ‒ why not just all subjects and all content, surely that would teach everything to a student? But we have to ask ourselves ‒ does the real world work that way? Can a student learn everything in one walkthrough of school life? The answer is a hard no, and that won’t change until we’ve genetically engineered superbrains and learned to slow down time.

Instead, your goal while implementing a Cambridge curriculum should be to maximize learning in a few subjects pertaining to a student’s Cambridge pathway, supported by some other subjects that let them be aware of how the world works. Too much content in one subject also does not result in better learning (almost always). Instead, let the learner maximize understanding of the basic, key points and encourage them to explore further on their own.

Balance of Knowledge

While the school’s vision does guide the breadth and depth of the subjects you will integrate into the curriculum, a balance must be struck somewhere pertaining to developing a sense of context of the specialty subject. Normally, a balanced diet for the studying mind includes mathematics, languages, sciences, technology, humanities, creative arts, and physical education. Covering these from the lower level broadly will expose the students to the actual world which consists of a bit of everything to make a project succeed.

Secondly, some subjects are special in the way that they are more integrated with many other subjects. Instead of teaching them as discrete subjects, your strategy should better include their implementation in other subjects while teaching them. Mathematics and Information Technology are two good examples of such subjects that are present in almost everything, even art. Further examples should be literacy and numeracy ‒ teachers of all subjects should be well-read and have a clear calculative mindset that makes sure that the students will be capable of working in their discrete subjects with good support.

Reaching Up

Your school’s duty is to prepare students for the world, on a national or international level. As such, your Cambridge curriculum should gear up your students to be compatible with the entrance criteria of most renowned universities or businesses. This becomes more and more important as the student goes through the Pathway and becomes more and more specialized.

Implementing a robust syllabus is a good way to achieve the above, but there are other ways too. As school leaders you can incorporate various support programs and activities into the curriculum, especially at the later stages, to give the students the industry and higher education exposure they need. 

Inter-curriculum Compatibility

We have previously assumed that your school already offers some other sort of qualification under other common boards like CBSE or ICSE. It is very important that your new Cambridge curriculum be compatible with your existing curriculum. The reason behind this lies in the fact that many students choose to move in and out of specific teaching systems as their needs fit them. If, for example, one of your students wants to migrate from class VI to Cambridge Lower Secondary, the process should be smooth and not jarring. 

Coherency

Perhaps this goes without saying, but an educational system should be more than just the sum of its parts. The content of a curriculum, its textbooks, its resources, and its assessing systems should all work together and be interconnected to reinforce each other. You can only call your international curriculum successful when the content of the curriculum, the pedagogical approach, and the assessment system all work together to maximize students’ learning development, achievement, and above all, the ability to see and work with the big picture.

Designing the School Curriculum with Cambridge

As mentioned above, the Cambridge Pathway is divided into four levels ‒ Primary, Lower Secondary, Upper Secondary, and Advanced. Here are some useful details about these levels to utilize while designing your Cambridge curriculum.

Cambridge Primary

• Age group: 5 to 11 years
• Builds a basic understanding of how the world works.
• Subjects available (none are compulsory):
  • Art & Design
  • Digital literacy
  • English
  • English as a second language
  • Cambridge Global Perspectives
  • Computing
  • Mathematics
  • Music
  • Physical education
  • Science
• Each subject can be divided into “strands” to navigate it easier and in more practical ways. For example, English can have four strands ‒ reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
• Assessments should be targeted toward identifying the strength and weaknesses of the students.
• Cambridge Primary Checkpoint: an end-of-the-line assessment test for the Cambridge Primary level, that grades students with only English (both first and second), mathematics, and science. The Global Perspectives subject is graded through a team project. Any student from another discipline completing the Checkpoint is awarded a special achievement status.

Cambridge Lower Secondary

• Age group: 11 to 14 year
• Bridges gap between primary education and board exam levels.
• Subjects:
  • Art & Design
  • Digital literacy
  • English
  • English as a second language
  • Cambridge Global Perspectives
  • Computing
  • Mathematics
  • Music
  • Physical education
  • Science
• Subjects can be similarly divided into strands to ease the learning process.
• Assessments should be good enough to provide an international benchmark of the student’s capabilities.
• Cambridge Lower Secondary Progression: for each stage, students can be directed to sit for this exam whenever the teacher feels they are ready.
• Cambridge Lower Secondary Checkpoint: The final test of the level, it evaluates the subjects English (both first and second), Math, and Science. Cambridge Global Perspectives is graded through a research paper.

Cambridge Upper Secondary

• Also known as IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education).
• Age group: 14 to 16 years
• Provides an excellent educational platform to build upon in the Advanced or Diploma levels, or can also provide qualification for some professions.
• Designed as a two year program, but students can choose to take it over a 1-year or 3-year course.
• Subjects: over 70 subjects with almost any possible combination (except a few ‘barred’ combinations). Here is the  full list of IGCSE subjects .
• Some subjects offer an “Extended” or “Supplementary” or “Advanced” tier. The ‘normal’ versions of those subjects are marked as “Core”. This extra education is elective. For example, a student can take Core Physics, OR Extended Physics that includes the core content plus something extra.
• Local assessments should give the students a grade for each subject course they complete.
• Cambridge IGCSE Assessment: taken at the end of the upper secondary source, it includes written, practical, oral, and coursework assessments.
• Grading is given in a scale of A* to G (from C to G for core subjects) in graduation from best to worst performance.

Cambridge Advanced

• Topmost level of the Cambridge Pathway, intended to prepare students for entry into the leading universities and businesses across the world.
• Also called the AS & A levels.
• Age group: 16 to 19 years
• Builds deep understanding, critical analysis, and independent thinking.
• Subjects: over 50 with any combination.  Full list here .
• Assessments would include formal written exams, orals, practicals, and coursework; gradation is from A* to E. 
• Pre-U (university entrance) exams are held at the end of a two year course, grading from D1 to P3. Pre-U courses are available by special request.

To Be Continued…

This article discussed what the aim and scope of your school leadership thought process should be to implement the Cambridge international curriculum at your school. We have discussed at length questions that need to be answered before starting the curriculum design, and basic principles to adhere to while building it. We have also given you a razor-edge overview of the Cambridge Pathway ‒ should you want to implement it in full or part. 

In the  next article about building a Cambridge curriculum for your school, we will discuss in detail about the subject distribution in each course, pedagogy, and the signature subject of the system ‒ the Global Perspectives progression. Till then, have a nice time!

The post Implementing Cambridge Curriculum in Schools Part 1 ‒ Labkafe appeared first on Labkafe Blog.