Written By Anshima | Edited By Varsha & Adi | Updated on 15th July, 2024
If you’re on the hunt for a school where Kannada isn’t on the subject menu, we’ve got you covered. We know many parents out there have jobs that keep them on the move, and the idea of picking up a language for a short period just doesn’t align with the child’s educational needs. As parents, we also don’t want our little ones to shoulder unnecessary subject burdens, especially if they don’t support their future goals. We understand how you must be feeling. Before we dive into the list of top Bangalore schools without Kannada as a compulsory subject, let’s unpack why Kannada found its way into the curriculum of CBSE, ICSE, and State Board schools in the first place. We’re here to provide clear information and address all your questions regarding schools without Kannada.
Quick Summary
Schools in Bangalore without Kannada Subject –
1. What is the Kannada Language Learning Act 2015?
2. Types of schools without Kannada as subject
- International Schools
- Montessori / Alternate Schools
- Home Schooling
- Kendriya Vidyalaya
3. List of Schools that do not have Kannada
4. Benefits of attending school without Kannada as a subject
5. Potential Drawbacks
Conclusion
Our Selection Proces
1. What is the Kannada Language Learning Act of 2015?
Let us understand the points mentioned in the Kannada Language Act 2015 in simple words.
In 2015, the Karnataka government decided that all students in grades 1–10 should learn Kannada in schools. This applies to every type of school, whether run by the state government or privately owned.
All schools were told to gradually teach Kannada as the first or second language. Even if a school hadn’t taught Kannada before, they now have to start teaching basic Kannada from grade 1 up to grade 10. The schools must use Kannada textbooks provided by the state government. If a student doesn’t pick their mother tongue (other than Kannada) as their first or second language, they can learn it as a third language.
There’s a person in charge, often called the “competent authority.” The government can give them directions if needed, and whatever the government decides is the final word. Nobody can take legal action against the people in charge of the government for doing things the right way.
However, in August 2023, the Karnataka High Court asked the state government to respond to a petition from some parents. These parents are concerned about the compulsory teaching of Kannada, as it might not align with their kid’s educational needs. They argue that many citizens in each state have a mother tongue different from the regional languages. These citizens often work in different states and enroll their children in CBSE/CISCE-affiliated schools. The court decision is still pending.
With the immediate effect of the Kannada Language Act 2015, Kannada is now a compulsory subject in all schools, be it CBSE, ICSE, or state board. However, a few schools have been granted exemptions from these requirements.
2. Types of schools without Kannada as a subject
2. Types of schools without Kannada as a subject
- International schools
International schools often do not have Kannada as a subject because they typically follow an international curriculum that prioritizes languages like English, French, Spanish, or other globally recognized languages. These schools aim to provide an internationally focused education to students from diverse linguistic backgrounds. Additionally, including Kannada may not align with the curriculum standards set by international education boards. Since these schools cater to students that come from various countries or parents shift to Bangalore for work. They don’t emphasize regional languages specific to a particular state or region.
- Montessori / alternative schools
Montessori schools have the freedom to design their lessons the way they think is best. Montessori/ alternate schools usually don’t teach Kannada because they follow a global way of teaching, focusing on a mix of subjects. They care a lot about helping kids grow in various ways, like being independent and creative. So, they might not feel the need to include specific regional languages in their lessons. Instead, they concentrate on the child’s main (mother tongue) language and more commonly spoken languages.
- Homeschooling
Homeschooling is all about tailoring education to suit the unique needs and interests of each child. Many kids opt for homeschooling because they’re pursuing other courses, engaging in sports, or dealing with various situations. The beauty of homeschooling is that it allows flexibility, letting kids and their parents design their learning paths. So, they don’t necessarily need to make Kannada or any other subject compulsory, they have the freedom to choose what works best for their circumstances.
- Kendriya Vidyalayas
Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs) are government schools run all over India. They follow the curriculum set by the Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS). Kannada might not be a must-learn subject in KVs because they want all students to learn the same things, no matter where they’re from. KVs have kids from different language backgrounds, mainly children of defence personnel and central government employees with transferable jobs. They teach Hindi and English, along with a third regional language. While Kannada might not be compulsory, some KVs might offer it as an extra language if students want to learn it. It fits with the government’s idea of bringing everyone together and giving the same education to kids whose parents work for the government, no matter where they live. Primarily, Kendriya Vidyalayas are known for being affordable schools.
3. List of Schools without Kannada
International Schools
1. Trio World Academy
Location: Sahakar Nagar
Board: IB, IGCSE
Language offered: English, Hindi, French, Sanskrit and Kannada.
Fees: ₹300,000 for Day School and ₹7,50,000 for Boarding
Trio World Academy, known as one of the top schools in Bangalore, follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) way of teaching, making kids think globally. Trio World Academy has introduced four languages in their curriculum: French, Hindi, Kannada (ಕನ್ನಡ), and Sanskrit, starting from the tender ages of 5 and 6.
Young learners have the opportunity to choose a language, whether as a second language or a third language, and gradually develop proficiency in all four essential language skills—reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension as they advance in their educational journey.
2. Indus International School
Board: IB, IGCSE
Fees: ₹300,000 for Day School and ₹7,50,000 for Boarding
Language offered: English, Hindi, French, Spanish, and German
Location: Sarjapur Road.
Indus International School typically offers a diverse range of language options to provide students with a well-rounded education. Indus International includes options such as English and Hindi. Additionally, they offer foreign languages like French, Spanish, Mandarin, and German to promote global awareness and multilingualism.
Indus International School typically offers a diverse range of language options to provide students with a well-rounded education. Indus International includes options such as English and Hindi. Additionally, they offer foreign languages like French, Spanish, Mandarin, and German to promote global awareness and multilingualism.
3. Stonehill International School
Board: IB
Annual Fees: ₹ 900,000
Language Offered: French, Hindi, Mandarin, and Spanish
Location: Tarahunise Post, Jala Hobli, Bangalore
At Stonehill International School, students focus on studying English in depth through language and literature. They also get to pick a language to learn, with options like French, Hindi, Mandarin, and Spanish. This helps them not only become better at languages but also understand different cultures from around the world. Stonehill’s way of teaching is designed to give students a well-rounded education and the ability to communicate with people from various backgrounds.
4. Bangalore International School
Board: IB
Annual Fees: ₹196,000 to ₹230,000 per year
Language Offered: French, Spanish, Hindi, German, or Kannada.
Location: Hennur Bagalur Road
In middle school at Bangalore International School, students learn different languages. The school offers two groups for language: Group 1 is about English language and literature, and Group 2 is about world languages. In World Languages, they can choose to learn French, Spanish, Hindi, German, or Kannada. This helps them become good at languages and learn about different cultures. The school wants students to enjoy a well-rounded education with many exciting subjects.
Montessori or alternative Schools
1. Shishya Jigyasa School
Board: IGCSE/GCE exams/A level
Annual Fees: not mentioned on the website
Language Offered: English, Hindi
Location: Vidyanagar Cross
Shishya Jigyasa School stands out as an alternative educational institution, catering to students from nursery to grade 8. The school distinguishes itself with a holistic education approach that focuses on practical learning and prioritizing sports. Unlike traditional schools, Shishya Jigyasa does not adhere to a national curriculum, instead, it draws inspiration from Montessori teaching methods, fostering a hands-on and experiential learning environment for its students.
2. Shibumi School
Board: Montessori and Reggio Emilia approaches
Annual Fees: not mentioned on the website
Language Offered: English, Hindi
Location: Bettahalli Kaval, Harohalli Post, Ramanagara Taluk, Bangalore Rural.
Shibumi School places a strong emphasis on practical learning. When we talk about regional language, it offers the flexibility of not mandating Kannada as a compulsory subject. You can consider this alternative school as it distinguishes itself from others, allowing students to progress at their own pace with guidance from teachers.
Notably, the school conducts exams exclusively in Grade 10, maintaining a focus on students’ interests, community involvement, and group discussions even during exam periods. Post Grade 12, students have the option to participate in an additional post-school program at Shibumi.
3. Sparkling Mindz
Board: Montessori and Reggio Emilia approaches
Annual Fees: ₹1,25,000.
Language Offered: English, Hindi
Location: Kannur, Bidarahalli Hobli, Hennur-Bagalur Road.
At Sparkling Mindz, learning is like a big adventure for kids. They have this awesome IBCL (Innovation Beyond Connected Learning) program where kids do practical activities using what they learn every day. It’s not just regular learning, but fun activities like designing, thinking creatively, and working together.
The school also uses a special program called Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and Multiple Intelligence Theory for better language education. The goal is to boost confidence, make friends easily, and handle changes like a pro.
And the best part of Sparkling Mindz is that they teach in English and Hindi, so kids don’t have to worry about learning any specific language.
4. Kendriya Vidyalayas
There are 13 Kendriya Vidyalayas in Bangalore city, and most of them have included Kannada as an additional language. Importantly, Kannada is not a compulsory subject, its inclusion depends on the preferences of students and parents who wish to learn the language. The introduction of Kannada typically occurs from grade 6 until the 8th grade.
However, it’s worth noting that the approach to Kannada language inclusion may vary across Kendriya Vidyalayas. For instance, in a research done by Time of India, the principal of KV-2 in Hubballi, ST Metre, clarified that Kannada is not part of their school’s curriculum due to a lack of demand from students and parents. Unlike some other Kendriya Vidyalayas, their school doesn’t have a substantial number of Kannadiga students, and many current students may relocate to other locations in the next 3-4 years. This lack of demand and the transferable student population are the main reasons for not introducing Kannada as a subject in their school.
If Kannada as an optional subject aligns with your preferences, exploring admission in Kendriya Vidyalayas could be a viable option for those interested in learning the language.
4. Benefits of attending school without Kannada as a subject
Attending a school without Kannada as a subject can have several benefits for students.
Without the distraction of learning a second language, students can focus more on developing their English language skills, which can be beneficial for their future education and career prospects. Learning in an English-only environment can expose students to different cultures and perspectives, which can broaden their worldview and promote cultural appreciation and understanding.
Without the distraction of learning Kannada, students can devote more time and attention to their core academic subjects, which can result in better academic outcomes. This way, learning becomes more personalized, and students can concentrate on what’s important for their studies and future jobs. Even though it’s nice to know local languages, not making Kannada compulsory lets students focus on what matters most for their education and future success. It’s all about making learning better for each student.
5. Potential Drawbacks
Not knowing Kannada can make it more difficult for students to pursue certain careers in Karnataka, such as in government, education, or media. The students may have a harder time understanding and appreciating local customs, traditions, and culture, which can limit their appreciation and understanding of Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage.
Additionally, not knowing Kannada or any regional language can make it hard to understand signs and talk to local people. This makes it harder to feel a part of the community and understand the culture. It can also mean missing out on fun activities and making new friends.
Conclusion
Let’s wrap it up.
So, when it comes to schools without Kannada as a must-have subject, it’s all about giving students more choices and flexibility. Whether you’re looking at international schools like TISB, Indus International, Stonehill, TRIO World Academy, and many others, Montessori or alternative school setups, homeschooling, or Kendriya Vidyalayas, they’ve made a conscious decision not to make Kannada compulsory. This choice empowers students to shape their learning experience based on what suits them best. It’s like having different flavors of ice cream to choose from – everyone gets to pick their favorite. If you’re thinking about these schools, we suggest visiting them to experience the environment firsthand and assess whether it meet your expectations for your child’s education. Additionally, weigh the advantages and drawbacks of switching schools to make an informed decision that suits your family’s needs.
So, What’s Next?
We suggest you ask yourself, What do you want for your kid? Make a list – of the “must-haves” and the “nice-to-haves”. Also, don’t be shy – talk to everyone! Friends and neighbors may have some thoughts. Check online, but remember, reviews are like opinions – everyone has their own!
Oh, school visits! Take a tour, meet the teachers, ask questions, and see if it clicks.
Open houses are helpful too – you’ll learn about what they teach and meet other parents. And don’t forget the money talk- school fees are just the tip of the iceberg. There are uniforms, field trips, and the occasional surprise costs.
Stay on top of the applications, and be prepared for interviews. Remember, when it comes to interviews, just being yourself is the key, even for the kid.
But really, you can’t go wrong with any of these schools as they are the best in Bangalore. Let us know which one you wind up enrolling your kid into!
Varsha & Adi
Hi, we are Varsha and Adi, and we’re on a mission to help parents make the right choice for their kids’ education. Picking a school is like a 10-year commitment, and we realized parents needed clear, no-nonsense info. That’s why we created Candid Schools, where you can get the real deal on schools without the fancy jargon. Our goal is simple: to give parents the info they need to make the best choice for their little ones.
