Manav Singla Director, Brookfield International School, New Chandigarh
He hails from a well-reputed educational-business background and proudly carries forward his legacy. With his unwavering dedication and strategic vision, he is all set to take their new project- Brookfield International School to greater heights. Meet Manav Singla, an alumnus of Delhi Public School, RK Puram, New Delhi and St Johns High School, Chandigarh and Director of Brookfield International School, who believes in sensitising students to become responsible citizens.
Can you describe the curriculum development process at the newly set up Brookfield International School?
At Brookfield International School, New Chandigarh, curriculum development is a dynamic process catering to diverse student needs.BFIS Excellence Programme It is an innovative and exclusive online math class for students from Class I to Class IX, focusing on fundamental math skills.
Experiential Learning- We promote cognitive and social development by emphasising hands-on activities at pre- and primary levels. This approach is crucial for students’ cognitive and social development.
E-Learning Facilities – We provide innovative classes from pre-nursery to Class XII, which are engaging and interactive and use current educational resources for better understanding.
Regular Updates -The modules and content are updated with the latest educational inputs to ensure relevance and effectiveness.
Teacher Development- Our teachers stay updated with the latest technologies and teaching methodologies to enhance the students’ learning experience.
Can you describe some of the unique programs or initiatives Brookfield International School offers its students ?
At Brookfield International School, we emphasise experiential learning through field trips and nature walks, which enhance learning and make it memorable, as well as classroom projects to connect students with real-world experiences. Students are encouraged to explore and discover new concepts practically through science experiments, math games, art projects, and role-playing to develop various competencies to instil love and creativity. Our collaboration includes Singapore-based Curiosity Kids for our toddlers and Interact Club for students. Our students have participated in several online events, contributing globally amongst eminent speakers worldwide and their representatives, and not to forget our faculty. At BFIS, senior students participate in the BFIS Excellence Programme, an exclusive and innovative online math class designed to help them develop and strengthen fundamental skills in mathematics. These initiatives prepare students for the modern world’s complexities.
How do you ensure that students’ diverse needs and learning styles are met at your School ?
We ensure that our students’ diverse needs and learning styles are met through a multi-faceted approach, such as personalised learning plans curated for students, addressing their unique strengths and areas for improvement, and ensuring that each student receives the support and challenges they need to thrive academically. Our teachers employ differentiated instruction techniques, tailoring their teaching methods and materials to cater to students’ varied learning styles like visual, auditory, kinesthetic, or combination. They also undergo regular professional development to stay informed about the latest educational research and techniques for learning needs. We foster an inclusive classroom environment where every student feels valued and supported. This includes providing additional resources and support for students with special educational needs. A variety of assessment methods are used to gauge student understanding and progress. This includes formative assessments, project-based learning, and traditional exams, allowing students to demonstrate their knowledge in multiple ways.
What initiatives have you implemented to promote cultural diversity and inclusion within the school community ?
Promoting cultural diversity and inclusion is central to our mission at Brookfield International School. Our curriculum incorporates diverse perspectives and content to highlight various cultures, histories, and traditions, focusing on a multicultural curriculum. Multiple festivals, like Diwali, Christmas, Eid, and Chinese New Year, are celebrated to foster respect for different cultural practices. Diverse workshops and seminars help educate students and staff on the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Language programs offer multiple language courses to enhance cultural understanding and communication skills. Inviting parents and guest speakers from different cultural backgrounds adds to diversity initiatives. Global exchange programs enable students to interact with peers from other countries, promoting international understanding.
What accomplishment of BFIS are you most proud of ?
I am most proud of the successful implementation and impact of the BFIS Excellence Programme, demonstrating our commitment to excellence across various domains at our School. Our achievements include the State-of-the-Art Infrastructure Award, recognised for providing an optimal learning environment with advanced technological resources. Hosting the National Chess Championship highlighted our organisational prowess, competitive spirit and dedication to intellectual development. Awards for innovative online programs like Enviro Tiger Fest and Act Now, the 24-hour longest and largest online program for three consecutive years, stand as a testament to our innovative educational approach, showcasing our commitment to engaging virtual learning experiences. Another accomplishment was the World Book of Award, which, in its first attempt, received recognition for the effective implementation of online education, particularly during challenging times, emphasising academic rigour and quality.
What is your vision for the School in the next five years ?
In the next five years, my vision for Brookfield International School is to make it an educational excellence and innovation renowned for its holistic approach to student development. We aim to expand our cutting-edge technology and E-learning facilities, ensuring that all students from pre-nursery to Class XII benefit from the latest educational advancements.The BFIS Excellence Programme will be enhanced by including more subjects and personalised learning for critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Strengthening community partnerships and global exchange programs will provide students with unique experiences. We aim to cultivate a supportive, innovative, and inclusive environment where every student is empowered to reach their full potential.
How do you maintain a work-life balance, especially given the demanding nature of your role ?
Maintaining a work-life balance in a demanding role requires intentional effort and prioritisation. I always ensure my presence at my children’s school events and important milestones, and we bond over our love for cricket by attending matches together. Setting clear boundaries and planning my schedule prevents professional responsibilities from encroaching on family time. Regular exercise, balancing my hobbies, and spending quality time with loved ones are also integral to my routine, which helps me stay balanced amidst the demands of my role.