• Dr. Jignesh Patel, Founder

Pre school education in context of National Education Policy 2020

An education system plays very vital role in the growth of any nation. With a goal to make the education relevant to 21st Century’s requirement, the central government came up with is very first comprehensive and holistic educational policy called – The National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020). It aims to transform India’s education system by creating an equitable, inclusive, and proactive environment for all the stack holders. The entire policy talked about education till the age of 18 years. Details are provided in the infographics below:

This article focuses on NEP in context of Pre School or Foundation stage education. NEP has given more importance to the early childhood education or Playgroup/ Nursery / Junior KG and Senior KG years of the kids. NEP 2020 emphasizes the importance of active learning during preschool education. Active learning is an approach that aims on the learner, and encourage them to think critically, solve problems, and develop one’s own sense. The policy highlights on the importance of play-based learning and activities that foster the development of skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, and creativity. The preschool must set up the facility and curriculum such that it encourages the self-learning among the kids. The school must promote the use of a child-centred learning environment, where the child is encouraged to explore, ask questions, and take ownership of the learning.

Educators are especially important part of the entire educational activity. The NEP 2020 also emphasizes the need for trained and qualified teachers who are equipped to deliver active learning activities and curriculum. The teachers must envisage them as the facilitators of learning. They must encourage the student’s participation and to create a culture of inquiry.

It is clear evident in the NEP 2020 policy document that the Pre School education stage is very important part of overall education system. The success of the rest of the stages are very much dependent on how the kids had been expose to the Pre School education. That is why it is also mentioned as “Foundation Stage” in NEP 2020.