Simple Education Foundation, India

Simple Education Foundation (SEF) believes that in the school systems, enduring change is possible only when we keep our children at the center of everything we do. It is also critical that our students, their caregivers, and educators work towards their full potential while collaborating meaningfully with each other. 

SEF's vision for learners

SEF's vision for all children is that they continuously learn, reflect and grow into self-aware individuals who act with alignment in head, heart, hand, and soul in service of all beings.  

The skills of critical thinking and creativity represent the domain of head. The skill of collaboration represents the hand. Grit, empathy, and curiosity represents the heart. These dispositions are critical motivators that fuel an action, word, or judgment. Nurturing these skills nourishes the soul and, therefore, enables them to have a sense of awareness and a sense of purpose. 

The principles that guide the design of all experiences and spaces are:

How does this influence the change journey for the schools?

SEF envisions a journey of change that empowers every individual and instills the power of collaboration. The continuous change journey is mapped into the following phases:

The belief in the interconnectedness and development of students, caregivers, educators, and the whole school ecosystem is reflected in the school model. 

An overview of the model is depicted below:

How is the model creating shifts in the school ecosystem?

The students, caregivers, and educators (teachers, head teacher, and school staff) interact with warmth and value listening to each other. Students feel a sense of safety. They feel comfortable making mistakes, sharing their perspectives, and asking for help. 

Educators experience warmth and safety in the school environment. They observe and acknowledge positive shifts in their children. They see the value in the involvement of caregivers in school activities, and the caregivers have a voice in decision-making. They discuss ways to improve the home environment. All involved in the school ecosystem are proud of their progress and are aware of their challenges. They all have people and structures they can rely on for support.