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The formative years of a child's
life require careful nurturing, the right environment, and a holistic approach
to flourish. Recognising the significance of this strong foundation, parents
are increasingly opting for educational institutions that go beyond rote
learning and promote holistic growth.
Among the many schools, ODM
International School in Durgapur has emerged as a progressive and
future-focused CBSE
primary school in West Bengal, providing structured solutions to the
challenges of traditional primary education while aligning with the CBSE
framework.
The Core Challenges in
Traditional Primary Schooling
Historically, primary education
in India has focused heavily on textbook learning and rote memorisation.
According to a 2023 ASER report, while basic literacy rates in West Bengal are
improving, only 37% of Class 3 students in rural areas can read a Class 2-level
text, and less than 45% can perform basic arithmetic operations. Such data
points highlight the limitations of rigid instructional methods and the need
for experiential, child-centric pedagogy.
In addition to academic concerns,
there are growing challenges related to emotional well-being, social
adaptability, and the digital divide—particularly after the learning
disruptions caused by the pandemic. Without a comprehensive approach, students
often face developmental gaps that impact their long-term success and
confidence.
ODM International School: A
Holistic Response
ODM International School,
following the CBSE primary school curriculum in West Bengal, addresses these
concerns through a multi-dimensional approach. Its educational design
integrates strong academic foundations with character development,
co-curricular exposure, emotional wellness programs, and digital
literacy—ensuring every child experiences holistic growth from the very start
of their schooling.
1. Academic Rigor Coupled with
Conceptual Learning
ODM follows a child-centred
teaching methodology aligned with CBSE guidelines. The school's early years
program emphasises understanding over memorisation. Classroom learning is
reinforced through activity-based teaching, concept labs, and interactive technology
tools. Teachers employ Bloom's Taxonomy to build higher-order thinking skills
from the foundational years.
Moreover, the teacher-student
ratio is maintained at an optimum level (approximately 1:25) to ensure
personalised attention. Internal assessments are not limited to marks but
include formative observations across cognitive, linguistic, and logical development.
2. Structured Co-Curricular
Framework
One of the most commendable
aspects of ODM's primary program is the structured inclusion of co-curricular
activities within the academic timetable. Unlike conventional schools, where
these are treated as optional, ODM ensures mandatory weekly participation in
sports, music, dance, visual arts, and public speaking.
This model has shown measurable
success. In the 2023–24 academic year, over 85% of primary students at ODM
actively participated in inter-house competitions, talent showcases, or
exhibitions—an engagement level significantly above the national average in
CBSE primary schools.
3. Emotional Intelligence and
Life Skills Education
Recognising that emotional
well-being is critical to learning, ODM incorporates dedicated "Happiness
Classes" and "Circle Time" sessions for primary students. These
sessions help children express feelings, develop empathy, and build resilience.
Teachers are trained to observe behavioural patterns and provide early support
for emotional concerns, supported by a team of certified child psychologists
and counsellors.
Additionally, the school offers
age-appropriate training in life skills—such as self-discipline, hygiene, peer
respect, and conflict resolution—through structured weekly modules.
4. Digital Literacy from the
Ground Up
In an increasingly digital world,
ODM introduces students to technology in a purposeful and monitored manner.
Smart classrooms, interactive whiteboards, and digital storytelling tools are
standard in primary sections. Furthermore, a basic coding and computational
thinking curriculum begins from Class 1, in alignment with the National
Education Policy (NEP 2020) recommendations.
This ensures children are not
only consumers of technology but learn to use it creatively and responsibly.
5. Inclusive and Value-Based
Environment
ODM fosters inclusivity by
welcoming students from diverse cultural, economic, and linguistic backgrounds.
The school curriculum includes value-based education sessions that promote
civic responsibility, environmental awareness, and ethical conduct.
Festivals, national days, and
special weeks (such as Literacy Week, Health Week, and Kindness Month) are
observed to imbibe cultural sensitivity and social ethics from an early age.
What Parents Should Know While
Seeking School Admission in Durgapur
If you are exploring school admission in Durgapur for your child, it's worth paying close
attention to whether the school offers a balance of academics, life skills,
co-curricular, and emotional support. A school that promises holistic
development will not just talk about test scores but also proudly showcase
student art, celebrate sports achievements, and highlight community engagement.
Visit the campus, speak to
teachers, observe the classrooms, and most importantly, try to get a sense of
whether the environment feels joyful, inclusive, and nurturing. Ultimately, a
school that nurtures the whole child is one that lays the foundation for a
lifetime of learning and success.
Conclusion
Holistic development in primary
education has become a necessity. As children navigate an increasingly complex
world, schools must be equipped to prepare them not only for examinations but
for life itself. CBSE
primary schools in West Bengal, led by schools like ODM International
School, are embracing this responsibility with foresight and dedication.
By blending academic rigour with co-curricular richness, emotional support, digital readiness, and ethical grounding, ODM is creating an education model where children don't just learn—they grow, thrive, and lead with purpose.
