The National Education Policy 2020 in India has made a significant recommendation to prioritize the strengthening of learning at the “foundational stage” for all children between the ages of 3 to 8 years. This stage encompasses 5 years of learning opportunities, including 3 years of preschool education and 2 years of early primary education in Grades-I and II. The policy aims to promote seamless learning and development for children during this crucial stage.
To ensure accessibility to quality preschool education for all children studying in Anganwadis or government, government-aided, private, and NGO-run preschool centers, it is imperative to provide three years of preschool education. Additionally, the availability of qualified teachers who are specially trained in age and developmentally-appropriate curriculum and pedagogy is crucial for this stage.
The National Curriculum Framework for Foundational Stage (NCF-FS) was launched recently on 20.10.2022 to achieve this vision. The Department of School Education & Literacy, Ministry of Education has reiterated directions to all State Governments and UT administrations through a D.O. letter 22-7/2021-EE.19/IS.13 dated 09.02.2023, to align their age to admission policies with the National Education Policy 2020 and provide admission to Grade-I at the age of 6+ years.
Furthermore, the States have been advised to design and run a two-year Diploma in Preschool Education (DPSE) course in their State and UT to ensure qualified teachers are available for the foundational stage. The State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) is expected to design the course, which will be run and implemented through the District Institute of Education & Training (DIETs) under the supervision and guidance of SCERTs.
The National Education Policy 2020 emphasizes the significance of the foundational stage in a child’s learning and development and highlights the need for accessible, quality education and qualified teachers to ensure seamless learning and development for children.
