CISCE empowers educators with Master Trainers' Programme for enhancing Foundational Literacy and Numeracy in schools

Delhi, May 09, 2023: The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) hosted Master Trainers’ Programme for Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) from 26th to 29th April 2023. The four-day training programme, conducted at CISCE’s Delhi office, focused on enhancing the teaching skills of trainers and teachers in foundational literacy and numeracy as part of the National Education Policy (NEP)-2020.

The Master Trainer’s Programme was conducted by experts in the field and included training sessions on the National Curriculum Framework for Foundational Stage (NCF-FS). It was coordinated and executed by a team of six experts. The training was based on the Resource Pack of four books that was launched by CISCE in January 2023. These books were curated for implementing the NIPUN Bharat guidelines in all the affiliated schools and were distributed to over 2800+ schools in India and abroad.

The training programme started with a welcome address from Mr Gerry Arathoon, the Chief Executive and Secretary of CISCE. The first day included sessions on various topics, such as the highlights of NCF-FS, understanding FLNs’ resource package, and group work on Foundational Language and Literacy (FLL). The second day focused on the storytelling approach and competency-based learning for the foundational stage, followed by an FLN-related assignment.

On the third day of the training, the discussions revolved around CISCE’s FLN Resource Pack, creating a suitable environment for FLN and providing enriching experiences for FLN. The training programme concluded with discussions covering the use of child-friendly technology in FLN, creating inclusive FLN classrooms, and designing training programmes for teachers.

The aim and purpose of the CISCE’s ‘Master Trainers’ Programme for Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) was to train and empower the teachers, and in the process create a core team of experienced teachers, who would be provided focused training in ‘Foundational Literacy and Numeracy. This core group of Master Trainers would then in turn conduct training programmes for teachers in their respective schools/ cities and regions, so as to disseminate this knowledge till the grassroot levels in all its affiliated schools.

Speaking about the programme, Mr Gerry Arathoon, Chief Executive & Secretary of CISCE, said, “As we look towards the future, we remain steadfast in our commitment to enhance the quality of education in India. Our Master Trainer’s Programme is a significant step in this direction, empowering a group of dedicated teachers with invaluable knowledge and skills through expert guidance. While we have been implementing some of the key themes suggested by the NEP 2020, the training programme will further enhance the participant’s ability to implement techniques and strategies to create a positive impact on their students’ learning outcomes. We have already accomplished much, and we are excited to continue this journey towards a brighter future for education in India.”

One of the participants, Jhumur Ghosh, Vivekananda Mission School Kolkata, shared the experience by stating, ‘The workshop was an eye-opener for me. It was extremely informative and useful. I got many wonderful ideas through the various activities. The concept of Foundational Literacy and Numeracy has become clear.’

CISCE is committed to continuing its efforts and providing teachers with the necessary training and support to ensure students receive a strong educational foundation.