India is a hub for several school boards. There are also different affiliations and certifications, and their value differs according to regional, national, and international standards. Therefore, it is pivotal to understand the fluff of all these boards and certifications. It can help you make a better decision about your child’s education.
You might get answers to questions like is it worth enrolling your kid in the best CBSE board school? What is the meaning of school board affiliation? Let’s dive deeper into the topic:
Meaning of School Board Affiliation
1. Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE)
A CBSE school board is nationally affiliated. It is recognized across India. While previously there was confusion about its recognition internationally, it is now accepted internationally.
One of the best aspects of CBSE is its consistency in the syllabus. Therefore, you can easily switch schools and enrol your child in the best CBSE school in Agra. You wouldn’t have to worry about your child adapting or keeping up with the syllabus.
The best CBSE board school also focuses on the child’s overall development. CBSE board doesn’t just focus on academics but also on extracurricular activities.
2. Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE)
An ICSE school board is also nationally affiliated. It is globally recognized by many international institutions. However, ICSE often focuses on rigorous syllabi that can be expansive and more detailed.
All ICSE school boards also follow a similar syllabus approach, but some lessons could have regional changes. The in-depth syllabus and education can be quite taxing on the children. They might not get enough time to balance it with co-curriculum activities.
3. State Boards
State boards are regionally affiliated. They focus on a diverse syllabus and often on regional knowledge and education. They promote and incorporate regional values, languages, culture, and context in the students. Therefore, they are less favourable for most parents.
If you’re especially looking for international exposure, State Boards aren’t the best options. They tend to cost less and are easily accessible. However, there are also state boards that hold high value and are well-recognized nationally in India.
4. International Baccalaureate (IB)
IB schools tend to follow an international affiliation. These schools maintain and uphold a global level of learning. It focuses on a student’s cognitive development and critical thinking. However, IB is more flexible and easily becomes an inquiry-based education.
The only real benefit of IB is they are well-recognized by worldwide universities. However, IB schools are more costly. They tend to focus on global-level expenses and a severe lack of IB schools in India. A student might also face issues with national colleges.
5. National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS)
NIOS schools also tend to hold national-level affiliation. They offer the utmost flexibility to the students. The open school concept allows the students to learn at their own pace. There’s no limit to the age or how long it will take for the students to pass a standard or class, or qualify.
However, as it is less rigorous, many universities and other higher education bodies tend not to recognize or work with NIOS. It lacks the support and resources needed to match the conventional schools. NIOS is also less available in India and mainly used for specially challenged or other folks looking to rebuild their lives.
Understanding The Importance & Impact of Choosing School Board
If a school is not affiliated by any board, it won’t be recognized by most universities, colleges, and other educational bodies. All the educational struggles of your ward will be for the nought. Therefore, it is pivotal to consider only the best CBSE board school, ICSE, or any other option.
The meaning of school board affiliation extends beyond just some regulatory body. Choosing the right school board can make all the difference for your child:
1. The Future of Opportunities
Choosing a well-recognized board often makes transferring your child to an educational body easier. If you travel or shift homes for various reasons (like jobs), then choosing at least a national-level board would be ideal. For example, CBSE or ICSE can be a better option as they are available almost everywhere.
Choosing a state board might cause obstacles for your child when they pursue higher education or attempt to study abroad. IB is usually better only if you’re opting for global-level education.
2. The Development of Your Child
Apart from education, other developments are also critical for your child. Children need to acquire social, mental, and curriculum skills. These come with apt time spent on each activity. The best CBSE school in Agra and other cities might open that frontier for your children.
ICSE is often more rigorous on the study side, while IB and State Boards may focus on the local or global-level preparations. However, you could look for a few boards like IB that will prepare your child for global-level prospects.
3. Flexibility and Adaptability
If you think that you’re fine with your child taking their time, then NIOS might be a better option. However, there are also adaptable and flexible CBSE schools like TISA that could provide better opportunities. You get the same level of flexibility with better future prospects.
A Short Overview
ICSE schools are better overall if you focus on English-level proficiency and International School exploration. Most colleges and universities accept ICSE students.
CBSE is a better choice if you want your child to receive English and Hindi (or regional language) proficiency with the proper and balanced syllabus. Switching schools and receiving the same opportunities as ICSE students is easier. Most colleges and universities accept ICSE students. Your child will also get more time to explore their talents and skills.
IB Schools are better if you plan for your child to apply to universities and colleges at the global level. They are not as beneficial for you nationally (India). Similarly, NIOS also offer better opportunities at the global level or to complete college degrees and such at a smaller scale.
State Boards vary greatly. They are great if you want your child to learn all your state’s culture, history, and values. Often, State Boards vary in difficulty. So, your child might have ups and downs if you change states.
Conclusion
Overall, choosing the right board is pivotal for your child’s future. It opens an array of possibilities. However, your children may pursue additional certifications and qualifications after completing their 10+2 studies. It can help polish their skills and access more possibilities.
Remember, each certification, board, or affiliation has perks and benefits. You have to choose the one that you deem perfect for your child. Hopefully, now you have all the answers to make an informed decision about your child’s future.
