Immersion Programme for Central School Principals of Bhutan
02 September 2015
The Royal Government of Bhutan is in the process of reforming the nation’s school education system and establishing ‘Central Schools’ across several districts of Bhutan for the holistic development of children. As part of this endeavor, a delegation of seven school Principals of Bhutan accompanied by Ms. Usha Pathania of Universal Learn Today visited Scindia School from 27
th August 2015 to 1
st September 2015.The last day we were honored to have a visit from the Director of Education of the Royal Government of Bhutan accompanied by three officials This immersion programme would contribute towards designing a policy blueprint for school education in Bhutan.
The objectives of the visit was to develop an understanding on:
- Leadership and management of a residential school; its vision, mission, and values; and how these are translated into the day-to-day activities at the school
- Various challenges in managing a residential school
- Roles and responsibilities of a Principal and Pastoral Care team of a residential school
- The academic programme and other learning activities (sports, performing arts, visual arts) of a residential school; and how these differ from that of a day school
- Programme for leadership of students- life-skills, health education and value education.
- Inclusive Education for special needs children
As part of this initiative, the team interacted with the Housemasters, Deans of Departments (Academics, Sports, Activities, ICT, Student Welfare), HODs, Administrative Heads, Estate Manager, Bursar, Teachers, Residential Doctor, Controller of Examination, Career Counsellor, Special Needs counsellor, prefects, matrons, parents and subject teachers. They were very keen on learning about the best practices of the school and the challenges faced by these individuals.
They also experienced a day in the life of a Scindian student and the meal plan and arrangements. For five days the team could be found everywhere on the campus, and in all the departments- observing academics, hobbies, games fields, archery and shooting range and residential spaces.
The visit to astachal amphitheatre where the students congregate in the quietude of the setting sun after the day’s hectic schedule to meditate and introspect drew admiration from the team as with other activities of the school.
The Principals left the school, thoroughly bowled over by our school system and the serenity of the 110-acre campus. What impressed them most was the 24-hour commitment of individuals they met towards the betterment of the school.
It was a symbiotic learning experience. Our school community in return was amazed by the simplicity, humility and the enthusiasm for learning displayed by the team of Principals.
