THE CAMBRIDGE ADVANTAGE: WHY AN EXCLUSIVE CAMBRIDGE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL MIGHT BE YOUR CHILD’S BEST BET IN GURGAON
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make as a parent.
In a bustling, growing city like Gurgaon, where fortunately & rather uniquely there are lots of schools & a plethora of school educational options – and since getting admission for your child in many good schools is, compared to many cities, relatively easy – it can feel overwhelming ( i.e., choice ! 😊).
But you’re now looking for a place that will not just educate, but truly nurture and prepare your child for an evolving & fast-changing future.
Interestingly, many schools in Gurugram do offer a “menu of curricula”, and while international curricula are generally regarded as premium options, have you wondered how schools can practically deliver on multiple curricula effectively (and sometimes from the very same campus)?
Let’s consider the unique benefits of an exclusive, focused, compact Cambridge International School.
It might seem counterintuitive at first – why limit choices when you can have them all?
BUT WHEN IT COMES TO EFFECTIVE DELIVERY & QUALITY EDUCATION – FOCUS OFTEN TRUMPS BREADTH.
As any school’s delivery apparatus, its effectiveness & thus impact on our dear children – is a very complex exercise, entailing weaving the Board’s curriculum, with the school’s specific books selection, academic & extracurricular & operational plans – including staff & teachers management, operating process, multiplicity of subject options, child development planning, tracking, measurement, and most importantly very high quality & focused teaching/engagement with the children by many teachers ( all of which and more are unique to each school & frankly to some extent fine-tuned by each teacher as well).
THE POWER OF FOCUS: DEEPER DIVE INTO THE CAMBRIDGE CURRICULUM
Imagine a school where the entire senior management, every teacher, every resource, every extracurricular activity, and every strategic decision is laser-focused on delivering one world-renowned curriculum: the Cambridge International Curriculum.
Here’s why a singular focus translates into tangible benefits for your child, amplified by the unique differentiators of Cambridge:
• Unparalleled Expertise and Depth: In an exclusive Cambridge school, teachers aren’t just familiar with the curriculum; they are specialists & experts. Their professional development, training, and experience – and day-to-day engagement is with Cambridge International (IGCSE) curriculum development seniors (in India /overseas) and thus are entirely dedicated to benchmark & mastering the nuances of Cambridge pedagogy.
This deep expertise translates into more engaging lessons, more precise explanations, and a profound understanding of how to unlock each child’s potential within the Cambridge framework.
• Optimized Resources and Infrastructure: From textbooks, experiential and digital learning platforms to science labs and libraries, every resource in an exclusive Cambridge school is carefully curated to support the curriculum’s specific demands. There’s no dilution of resources across multiple educational philosophies. This means your child benefits from highly relevant and top-quality learning tools that directly enhance their Cambridge journey.
• Consistent Quality Delivery: When a school commits to a single, high-quality, widely respected (both in India and overseas) international curriculum like Cambridge, it signifies a dedicated pursuit of excellence & focus in that particular domain. The school’s entire ecosystem (its operating structure, including people, processes and systems) is designed & and honed to ensure consistent, high-quality delivery and outcomes. This streamlined & focused approach minimizes potential inconsistencies that can arise when a school attempts to juggle the unique requirements and assessments of multiple curricula.
WHAT MAKES THE CAMBRIDGE CURRICULUM TRULY DIFFERENT?
Beyond the advantages of an exclusive focus, the Cambridge International Curriculum itself stands out for several key reasons:
• Beyond Rote Learning: Cultivating Critical Thinking & Problem Solving: Unlike many traditional curricula that can lean heavily on memorization, Cambridge emphasizes how to think, not what to think. Students are encouraged to analyze, evaluate, research, and apply knowledge to real-world situations. This fosters genuine understanding and equips children with essential 21st-century skills like critical thinking, inquiry, and problem-solving from an early age.
• A Progressive & Spiral Learning Pathway: The Cambridge curriculum is designed with a “spiral approach.” This means concepts are introduced at an age-appropriate level and then revisited and built upon in increasing depth as children progress through the stages (Cambridge Primary, Lower Secondary, Upper Secondary, and Advanced). This continuous reinforcement and deepening of knowledge ensure a strong foundation and sustained understanding.
• Broad & Balanced Subject Offerings with Flexibility: While providing a strong foundation in core subjects like English, Mathematics, and Science, Cambridge also offers a wide array of optional subjects, including Arts, Music, Digital Literacy, and crucially, Global Perspectives. This subject, unique to Cambridge, specifically develops research, analysis, evaluation, reflection, collaboration, and communication skills by exploring global issues. The flexibility allows students to explore their interests and tailor their learning path.
• Rigorous & Varied Assessment Methods: Cambridge assessments go beyond simple exams. They are designed to evaluate a student’s more profound understanding and ability to apply knowledge, often incorporating coursework, practical tests, oral presentations, and listening comprehension. This holistic approach provides a more accurate picture of a child’s overall growth and mastery.
• Global Recognition and Pathways: Cambridge qualifications (like IGCSE and A Levels) are recognized and valued by universities and employers worldwide, including top institutions. This international credibility provides a clear and advantageous pathway for students aspiring to pursue higher education globally.
• A Culture of Excellence Aligned with Cambridge Values: The Cambridge International Curriculum isn’t just a set of subjects; it’s a philosophy that promotes critical thinking, independent learning, research skills, and a global perspective. In an exclusive Cambridge school, this philosophy permeates every aspect of school life, fostering a consistent and coherent learning environment that truly embodies the Cambridge spirit. Your child will thrive in an atmosphere where inquiry, innovation, and international-mindedness are deeply ingrained.
In Gurgaon’s competitive educational landscape, an exclusive Cambridge International School isn’t just offering a curriculum; it’s offering a commitment to focused excellence and a distinct educational philosophy. It’s about providing your child with an education that is not just broad but profoundly deep, consistent, and globally recognized, preparing them not just for exams but for life itself.
When you’re exploring schools for your little one, consider the power of focus and the unparalleled advantages of the Cambridge International Curriculum. An exclusive Cambridge International School might be the dedicated, high-quality environment your child needs to flourish truly.
THE COURAGE TO PRIORITIZE FOUNDATIONS!
It takes courage as a parent to sometimes go against the tide, to resist the pressure to conform to what others are doing. But remember, your child’s well-being and genuine love for learning are far more valuable than perceived academic acceleration.
If the learning and development benchmarks for the next grade are not yet achieved, and your child genuinely needs more coaching and time to get ready, embrace it. Seek out resources, work with their current educators, and create a nurturing environment where they can solidify those crucial foundations.
Because ultimately, a strong foundation isn’t just about academic success; it’s about building confident, resilient, and joyful learners who are genuinely prepared for the exciting educational journey ahead.
Let’s empower our children to build their houses on rock, not on sand.
What are your thoughts, fellow Gurugram parents? Have you reflected on these key points or are grappling with this matter?
Do share your views, experiences and insights in the comments below!
We hope this helps you, dear parent!
Meanwhile enjoy developing your child at a good neighborhood school, home and outdoors
There are some great parks/green spots/sports fields near at as well near our school campuses – consider locating a suitable one in your neighborhood, for encouraging physical activity – the seeds of any sports – near say:
- SouthCity1
- Sector31
- Sector40
- Sushant Lok
- Sector72
- Sector70
- Sectot71
- Sector48
- Badshahpur corridor*
- Leisure Valley
(*) which is right next to the Sixth Element – Tata Primanti campus – and the trees near our school’s north/east boundary – help filter our school campus air, too.
Why – the Sixth Element School?
The Sixth Element was a phrase coined by the school founders 20 years back to illustrate igniting the joy of learning – crucial for children’s development – as we nurture and prepare them for the future.
How to Foster a Well-Rounded Child?
While there is lots of operating structure and detailed SOPs in the school’s daily /weekly/monthly/annual – schedules – “how” the same is executed is unique – i.e., the Sixth element way of incorporating co-curricular & scientific & artistic activities, project work etc – leading to children enjoy learning & look forward to coming to school each day (and interestingly they do miss school on holidays 😊 ! )
Some examples of what’s done to instill values & character building:
- Instill values: Understanding differences between right and wrong is often discussed in its many facets. Discussing environmental issues, volunteering for community activities, clean-ups, and respecting all living beings.
- Values as a Compass: Values are the moral principles that guide our actions. The Cambridge International Curriculum emphasizes global citizenship and community service and fosters values like respect, empathy, and responsibility.
- Embrace sustainability: Reduce waste, conserve energy, and grow your food together. Encouraging minimalism (BTW, we are a uniform school), upcycling, gardening, and exploring green technologies like rainwater harvesting, recycling, etc.
- Building Confidence: The curriculum’s focus on individual & team achievement (over experiential projects in small groups) and overcoming difficulties – and making progress, encouraged by the teacher, helps build self-esteem. Students develop a strong sense of confidence and resilience by setting and achieving goals.
- Life Skills for Real World: The curriculum’s focus on independent learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving equips students with essential life skills. These skills are invaluable in navigating challenges and opportunities- building confidence.
THE SIXTH ELEMENT’ School’s commitment to sustainability?
At the Sixth Element, we believe that education should go beyond classrooms. Our green, airy, spacious campuses are a living laboratory where children learn experimentally about sustainable practices. From solar panels to rainwater harvesting, recycling & near no plastics usage.
Our curriculum integrates sustainability into every subject, fostering a deep appreciation for nature, science, commerce & the arts – while instilling a desire to protect our planet.
By igniting the joy of learning and nurturing curiosity, confidence, values, and environmental consciousness – we empower children to become successful individuals and equally responsible members of society and global citizens.
Does a unique International Curriculum School like the Sixth Element help?
A progressive holistic school following Cambridge International Curriculum significantly contributes to lots of experiential learning and project-based work.
The Sixth Element School: Where Cambridge International meets India- in an exclusive, low-density, impactful format.
The reason why we chose the Cambridge International curriculum is that the blend of teacher-directed as well as learner-self-driven learning & research seems to be relevant for aspirational kids from Indian families, keen on preparing their kids to be global citizens of the future – whether based in India or overseas.
Is the Sixth Element School duly registered with Cambridge International?
Yes, The Sixth Element School – is duly registered as one of over 10,000 schools globally – as a Cambridge International school with a global registration number IA 892
Keen to see what a unique school like The Sixth Element School offers? Schedule a visit and see why it could be the perfect launchpad for your child’s bright, global future!
We started the first sixth element school 20 years back in 2004 @ Gurgaon.
Our schools & afternoon extended school & afternoon’ activities enriched’ daycare centres are unique, exclusive, compact neighborhood green campuses – where many outdoor activities & experiential learning (physical – not digital) occur with children on most days.
Our unique Smaller campus – with only two sections per class grade – and minimal children on campus allow us to focus on each child’s growth & development properly.
We are proud of our high-quality, committed teachers – the backbone of any good learning environment.
We raise well-rounded future ready individuals who are prepared to face the challenges of the world with confidence and integrity – with the proper methods and practices. For example, our foundational fitness program delivered in partnership with fit Kids, our gym, our green playgrounds and great coaches gives our school kids a great foundational fitness start.
A good understanding and partnership between parents and schools is key to nurturing the future leaders of gurugram, our great nation and planet.
THE SIXTH ELEMENT SCHOOL WE BELIEVE IN THE IMPORTANCE OF CATALYSING & ENSURING “THE SIXTH ELEMENT – i.e. THE JOY OF LEARNING ” FOR EVERY CHILD. OUR CURRICULUM IS BENCHMARKED WITH THE BEST INTERNATIONALLY WHILE DRAWING FROM OUR VERY OWN CORE ANCIENT INDIAN BEST PRACTICES SUCH AS THE GURU SHISHYA PARAMPARA) & VALUES. THANKS TO ITS 20+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE AND ITS CORE CHILD DEVELOPMENT PRACTICES DRAWN FROM PIAGET, VYGOSTKY AND BRUNER – WHICH IS INCIDENTALLY THE RESOURCE POOL – FOR THE FOUNDATIONAL YEARS SCHOOL CURRICULUM OF THE UPGRADED NEW EDUCATION (NEP) UNDER ROLLOUT IN INDIA NOW.
So, in line with some of India’s top and the best globally, we are now a unique 100% Cambridge International School.
the Sixth Element School
the schoolchildren love
SOUTH CITY 1. TATA PRIMANTI (sector 72)
85272-74695 or 97736-32626
since 2004(20 years)
Limited enrollment available in pre-NURSERY, NURSERY, KG & DAYCARE, grade 1 now – in our prenursery to K12 school programs.
@ Gurgaon’s only single-section “exclusive” boutique VENTILATED, AIRY, SPACIOUS. GREEN SCHOOL CAMPUSES
