New Era Secondary School: A Model for Educational Excellence in Auroville
Concerning the number of students enrolled in the 9th class in India, a report as of 2021-2022 indicates around 15 million students were enrolled across various state boards and the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). This highlights the significant number of students investing in their education, particularly in the middle-grade levels.
Background and Goals
Based in Auroville, the New Era Secondary School (NESS) is a unique institution that aims to achieve academic excellence while fostering integral development. Established to align with the ideals of Auroville, NESS focuses on human unity and international diversity, providing a platform for students from various backgrounds.
NESS adopted the NCERT syllabus in 2007 and became affiliated with the CBSE in 2008. This decision was driven by the intent to elevate the learning standards of students through one of India's best educational programs. The educational reforms of 2005 made this curriculum particularly suited, as it is activity-based, child-centered, and well-recognized by higher education institutions.
Academic Achievements
NESS has achieved notable success in its early years. In 2009, the first graduating class of seniors saw seven out of eight students pass all examinations, earning the CBSE National Examination Certificate. These students all enrolled in colleges, with two ranking top in their classes. Additionally, three graduates received private scholarship grants from Auroville friends.
While the 10th standard examination was eliminated in 2010, NESS now enjoys four years of continuous learning, which supports its original goal of becoming an “autonomously affiliated CBSE school.” Additionally, the CBSE has adopted continuous comprehensive assessment, aligning with NESS's already adopted child-centered portfolio evaluation system.
Organizational Structure and Resources
NESS is currently a registered unit of the Auroville Foundation and operates independently. The school has a team of seven highly qualified teachers, who commute primarily from Pondicherry. As of 2010, NESS has a total enrollment of 50 students across different grade levels.
Student evaluation occurs continuously, with progress reports shared with families at the end of each semester. The school also conducts portfolio presentations and exhibitions, addressing individual and small group needs with supplementary classes and sports programs.
Community Impact and Future Plans
NESS has fostered community-wide environmental education projects and organized multi-school debates, basketball, and volleyball tournaments. These initiatives reflect the institution's commitment to both academic and developmental goals.
Looking ahead, plans have been submitted for the construction of a science lab complex and additional classrooms. The proposed building construction budget is Rs. 78 lakhs, with yearly operating expenses of approximately Rs. 15 lakh, totaling a five-year budget requirement of approximately Rs. 1.5 crore. This development will allow NESS to expand the CBSE science stream and increase student enrollment to 120 over the next five years, catering to the increasing number of Tamil students from Aurovilian families who wish to pursue science education.
NESS stands as a model for educational institutions in India, emphasizing holistic learning and community engagement.