Bangalore: The number of school dropouts is the highest in the transition from primary to high school, when children are in the 6th or 7th standard.

In an effort to strengthen the link between the two phases, the Education Department is starting composite high schools from this academic year. A composite school will bring primary, secondary and high schools located in close proximity into one administrative unit.

A Government Order issued recently says that 521 such schools will be started this academic year in rural areas. The numbers will be increased progressively in the coming years, and schools in semi-urban areas and small towns will also be brought under this system. The order notes that children now need to get a transfer certificate and seek fresh admission to high school after 7th standard. This is the point at which many drop out of school. The composite school, the department hopes, will eliminate this hurdle to make the transition smooth.

Important linkage

The Commissioner, Department of Public Instruction, M. Madan Gopal, says this linkage is also important in giving greater academic attention to children in higher primary schools. High school teachers specialising in teaching specific subjects can also pitch in to help these students in composite schools.

The order directs teachers to focus on "holistic education of children" without making any distinctions between primary and high school. "This will also allow resources available to high schools, such as libraries and laboratories, to be used by children in higher primary schools," he says.

The order reiterates that the primary school teacher's responsibility is not only to teach children who are admitted to school but also ensure that children in the surrounding areas are enrolled in school. They are expected to create "an interesting learning atmosphere" that enthuses students to stay in school. "Ensuring quality in education is every teacher's responsibility," the order says.

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