New Delhi: The New Education Policy (NEP) has recommended that students be admitted in class I only after they become “school ready”. This will put an end to the practice in many places of admitting children directly to the first standard.
The policy stipulates that children should be prepared for the first standard through basic training in anganwadis and pre-primary classes. This is why the policy says children can be included in the scope of schooling from the age of three.
The policy points to the problem of children not receiving adequate attention and learning early on. It has been observed that a large percentage of students fall behind in their studies in the very initial stage of education itself in Class 1.
The best period for the development of a child’s brain is before it turns 6.
Besides anganwadi and pre-primary classes, the policy also proposes a three-month school-preparation module to make children ready for class I.
Anganwadis gain more importance
The New Education Policy has increased the importance of anganwadis. It says that anganwadis will function in association with the nearest schools.
Anganwadi children and staff should be called for school events and vice-versa, the policy stipulates.
It also says anganwadis should ensure child-friendly building, good infrastructure, recreational equipment and staff, including trained teachers.
The Early Childhood Chidden Education (ECCE) program will be implemented for small children, including those in anganwadis, according to the policy.