As parents in India, the “school search” can feel like a monumental task – especially in these times.
From the moment our little ones take their first steps, a subtle hum begins in our minds: “Which school will be the right one?” We pore over brochures, visit sprawling campuses, and listen intently to testimonials, often drawn to the allure of a “fancy” school brand.
But in a world morphing at lightning speed, where today’s cutting-edge technology is tomorrow’s relic, it’s time to pause and ask ourselves a crucial question: Will a prestigious school brand truly be the most valuable asset for our children’s future, or should our focus shift to something more fundamental now: building core foundation skills and instilling an unquenchable joy of learning?
This isn’t about dismissing the excellent work many well-known schools do. It’s about a deeper introspection into what kind of education will genuinely equip our children not just for the next exam, but for a lifetime of navigating the rapidly changing & unknown FUTURE.
The Allure of the Brand: A Double-Edged Sword?
Let’s be honest, the idea of our child attending a “top-tier” institution holds a certain appeal. We envision state-of-the-art facilities, in a big campus , impressive alumni networks, and a perceived stamp of approval that might open doors later in life. And in some traditional pathways, this still holds weight.
However, consider this:
- The shelf-life of “fancy”: What makes a school “fancy” today might not be the metric of success tomorrow. The skills valued in the job market are evolving so rapidly that relying solely on a brand name for future success might be a gamble.
- Pressure vs. Potential: High-pressure environments, often synonymous with brand-name schools, can sometimes stifle creativity and the very joy of learning. Are we inadvertently sacrificing our child’s intrinsic motivation for external validation?
- The “real” world outside the gates: No matter how prestigious the institution, true success in a fluid world will depend on adaptability, problem-solving, and the ability to learn continuously – qualities that aren’t solely taught within four walls.
Beyond BIG SCALE SCHOOL CHAIN Learning: The Power of Core Foundation Skills
The rapidly changing world demands a different kind of preparation. Instead of focusing solely on “factory like” big scale schooling – which most big brands/many sections/grade schools typically operate like – despite all the jargon that their impressive brochures talk about ; so lots of scale, process, structure, huge number of teachers & children and standardized tests do take over – in their big, big campuses.
But, we need to prioritize skills, emotional strengths & values that are future-proof. Think of them as the bedrock upon which all future learning, their adaptability and innovation will be built:
- Critical Thinking & Problem Solving: Can your child analyze information, ask insightful questions, and find creative solutions to unfamiliar challenges? This isn’t about finding the “right” answer, but about developing the process to find the apt answer relevant at that time.
- Creativity & Innovation: In an age of automation, human creativity is our superpower. Does the school foster imaginative thinking, encourage experimentation, and allow for divergent ideas?
- Communication & Collaboration: The ability to articulate thoughts clearly and work effectively with diverse groups is non-negotiable in any future profession/setting. Does the school provide ample opportunities for group projects, presentations, and respectful dialogue?
- Adaptability & Resilience: Change is the only constant. Can your child bounce back from setbacks, embrace new ideas, and pivot when circumstances demand it? A growth & lets find our way through the challenges “mindset”, not just a grades-driven one, is key in the FUTURE.
- Digital Fluency & Media Literacy: Beyond just knowing how to use a tablet, can your child critically evaluate digital information, understand online ethics, and leverage technology as a tool for creation and learning?
Instilling the Joy of Learning: The Ultimate Superpower
Perhaps the most valuable gift we can give our children is an insatiable curiosity and a genuine love for learning – since whatever they will learn now – will necessarily be enhanced in the FUTURE – and possibility on their own – not on any campus.
So, when learning is an exciting journey of discovery, rather than a dreaded chore, children become lifelong learners – a quality far more valuable than any degree or school name.
Ask yourself:
- Does the school’s culture – spark curiosity, or does it simply transmit information?
- Are mistakes viewed as learning opportunities, or as failures?
- Is there room for exploration, play, and following individual interests?
- Does the learning feel relevant and connected to the real world?
- Does the school seem like a “factory” or is the campus smaller with lesser children/teachers – which naturally allow for more individualized attention & smaller groups ?
The “Right” School for Your Child?
So, what does this mean for your school search in India? It means looking beyond the glossy brochures and asking deeper questions relevant for your child’s FUTURE:
- Observe the classrooms: Are children engaged and active participants, or passively receiving information?
- Talk to the teachers: Do they seem passionate, innovative, and focused on holistic development?
- Understand the pedagogy: Does the school emphasize inquiry-based learning, project-based learning, or a more traditional approach?
- Consider the culture: Does the school foster a supportive, inclusive, and emotionally intelligent environment?
- Most importantly, consider your child: What is their learning style? What are their interests? What environment will allow them to thrive and develop a love for learning?
In our “rapidly changing” world, the true measure of education won’t be the brand name on a diploma, but the skills, mindset, and passion your child carries within them.
Let’s plan for their future by equipping them not just with knowledge, but with the ability to learn, adapt, and thrive in whatever tomorrow brings.
What are your thoughts on this? Kindly
do share your perspective in the comments below!
What are your thoughts, dear Gurugram parents? Have you grappled with this decision?
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
