Isha Home School Philosophy
addresses the child as a whole, providing an excellent education, in a home-like nurturing environment. In many ways the school resembles the extended, large, joint families of the past, wherein each person whilst retaining his or her individuality, is also an active part of an intimate microcosm of people from different age groups, mental make-up, and needs.
The school is designed to kindle the innate urge within a child to learn and know rather than to impose information or knowledge. Focus is upon inculcating life values and living skills, whilst maintaining the rigor of academic excellence as per national and international standards. It does not propagate any particular religion, philosophy or ideology, but rather encourages the child to seek a deeper experience and inner understanding of the fundamentals of life.
The aim of the school is to develop each student to his or her true potential, enhancing their latent and natural talents.
Curriculum and Evaluation
The school curriculum is specifically designed to include personalized teachings and evaluations, catering to each student’s specific needs and inclinations. The younger students’ classrooms incorporate some elements of the Montessori method, while older students experience project based learning.
In addition to the core curriculum, the school offers additional electives to further enhance the child’s development.
Physical disciplines are an integral part of the student’s day. The basic practice of yoga, along side a variety of games and sports, are included in the curriculum for the physical and mental development and well-being of the child. Additional physical disciplines, such as traditional Indian martial arts and classical dance are offered to further enhance stability, endurance and concentration.
Fine arts are emphasized. Students explore various traditional and contemporary art forms from around the world and indigenous to India using various media. Furthermore, students are given exposure to Western, Carnatic and Hindustani vocal and instrumental styles, and are required to demonstrate proficiency in at least one musical instrument. Mornings begin with sarlivarsai/ sargam, which is scientifically known to work subtly on the mind and body.
Additionally, students can choose between such offerings as gardening, cooking, embroidery, pottery, folk dance and drama.
The school draws upon its natural surroundings for experiential learning and inspiration. Nature treks and open air teachings, under a canopy of trees or on the riverbank, are a regular feature at the school. Environmental education is intricately woven throughout the learning process to help students become life sensitive and aware of the impact of their actions.
The school is not separated into grades or standards. The students are vertically grouped, wherein students of various ages are together in the classroom setting. The multiage environment allows students to go beyond predefined age-specific syllabi and enhances their learning aptitudes and capabilities. Qualitative assessments of progress are regularly carried out, and these are discussed with the students and shared with the parents. Whilst maintaining this well-rounded approach, the school prepares the student to appear for the board examinations at the appropriate age.
