Unlocking Mainstream Schooling: A Parent’s Guide | 2024-25  

Written By Sangeeta | Edited By Varsha & Adi | Updated on 18th Mar, 2024


We all know that each school is different, and they are categorized based on the facilities they provide or their fee structure. But here, we will focus on one such school category called mainstream schools. These schools are just like our regular schools- they don’t focus solely on one thing like niche schools, which concentrate on one particular area such as sports or art. Instead, mainstream schools provide everything for a high-quality education. 

These schools can also be paired with other categories, such as MS Dhoni Global School, which is both a new-age and mainstream school. We will discuss what mainstream schools are and their importance, and highlight some of the best schools in India categorized as mainstream.


Quick Summary

Unlocking Mainstream Schooling

  1. Types of Schools Categories
  2. Why is it Important to Know About the Types of Schools?
  3. What are Mainstream Schools?
  4. Pros and Cons of Mainstream Schools
  5. Elements that Classify a School as Mainstream
  6. Best 5 Mainstream Schools in India
    • Ecole Globale Girls School 
    • MS Dhoni Global School, Bangalore
    • Mayoor Chopasni School Jodhpur
    • Birla Open Minds International School, Lucknow
    • The Hyderabad Public School
  7. Conclusion  
  8. FAQs

1.  What are Different Types of School Categories?

We have categorized schools into four different school categories as per what they offer.  

Mainstream School

A mainstream school is a regular type of school that most kids go to. It’s where students learn subjects like math, science, and history, and they usually follow a set curriculum. These schools are open to all kids in the community and offer a standard education program.

New-Age School

New age schools are known for their innovative approach. They use the latest technology, like robots and computers, to teach, and their classrooms are really modern. These schools have excellent facilities and don’t stick to traditional teaching methods. They try out new and exciting ways to prepare your child for the future.

Niche School

A niche school is a special kind of school that focuses on one specific thing. Instead of teaching a wide range of subjects like math, science, history, etc., they might focus on just one area, like art, music, or sports. These schools are for kids who are really interested in that particular thing and want to learn more about it in-depth.

Legacy School

A legacy school is a traditional type of school that has been around for a long time. It’s like a school that’s been passed down from generation to generation, with families sending their children there for many years. These schools often have a strong reputation in the community and may have a rich history or special traditions that they’re known for.

2. Why is it Important to Know About the Types of Schools?

Deciding where your kid goes to school is a big deal—it can shape their whole future! You want to find a place where they’ll grow and be happy. That’s why it’s crucial to choose a school that supports their interests right from the start. 

Mainstream schools are awesome for outgoing kids—they’re like big playgrounds where they can explore and find what they love. It’s all about letting them be themselves and discover their passions. Different schools offer different things, so you can find the perfect fit for your child’s strengths and interests. When they’re excited about what they’re learning, they’ll be eager to go to school and put in the effort. And in the end, they’ll not only get smarter but also become well-rounded individuals who are fulfilled and happy.

3. What are Mainstream Schools?

Mainstream schools are the ones you usually see around your neighborhood, where kids of all kinds go to learn. They have regular classes in subjects like math, science, English, and social studies.

 But it’s not just about studying—they also offer lots of fun activities like sports, clubs, and arts programs to make school more enjoyable. These schools welcome everyone, no matter who you are or what you like. They aim to give you a complete education and help you figure out what you’re really into! And the cool thing is, mainstream schools often have extra help available for kids who need it, so everyone can learn together. Now, let’s check some Pros and Cons of Mainstream schools for better clarity.

4. Pros and Cons of Mainstream Schools

Do you know what’s great about mainstream schools? They give students exposure to a variety of subjects, making them well-rounded individuals. It’s not just about hitting the books, they also dive into extracurricular activities like arts, crafts, dance, debating, etc. This helps kids explore and find what they’re passionate about. Plus, with structured curriculums like CBSE or ICSE, these schools do a solid job prepping students for competitive exams.

But, let’s not overlook the downsides. The set curriculum might not suit every student’s learning style or interests, and mainstream schools might not offer as much flexibility for personalized learning or alternative teaching methods.

5. Elements that Classify a School as Mainstream

1. Standard Curriculum: 

So, in these mainstream schools, they follow a regular curriculum set by the big educational bosses. You know, stuff like math, science, reading, and social studies—it’s all on the menu!

2. Inclusive Admission: 

These schools are like the friendliest clubs in town—they welcome everyone from the neighborhood, no special requirements needed. So, whether you’re a math whiz or a future artist, you’re all good to join in.

3. Extracurricular Activities:

It’s not just about hitting the books here! They’ve got tons of cool stuff happening after school too, like sports teams, clubs for every interest under the sun, artsy projects, and even chances to give back to the community.

4. Accessibility: 

These schools are right where you need them, usually smack dab in the middle of the neighborhood, so getting there is a breeze. Whether you walk, bike, or hop on the bus, they’re easy to reach.

5. Support for Specially-Abled Students: 

These schools go the extra mile to make sure everyone feels included. They’ve got special tools and techniques to help students with different needs learn and shine, so nobody gets left behind. It’s all about making sure every kid feels like they belong and can rock their school journey!

5. Best 5 Mainstream Schools in India

1. Ecole Globale Girls School, Uttarakhand

Location: Village Horawalla, Near Sahaspur, Dehradun, Uttarakhand

Fees: Rs. 11,98,726

Social Media: Website and Facebook.

Overview

  • This school comes under the top school for CBSE. The campus of Ecole Globale spans over 40 acres and is equipped with spacious classrooms, science and computer labs, a library, an art and music room, a dance studio, and a theater.
  • The school also has facilities for various outdoor and indoor sports, including basketball, volleyball, swimming, horse riding, and tennis.
  • Ecole Globale offers classes from 4th to 12th. 
  • The school has a strong focus on holistic education and aims to develop well-rounded individuals who are not only academically proficient but also socially responsible and emotionally intelligent.

2. MS Dhoni Global School, Bangalore

Location: Kudlu Gate, HSR Extension South, Bengaluru, Karnataka

Fees: Rs. 1 Lakh to Rs. 1.75 Lakhs 

Social Media: Website, Facebook, Instagram.

Overview: 

  • The school follows the CBSE curriculum with English as the medium of instruction
  • MS Dhoni Global School is one of the few schools in Bangalore to be a Microsoft Showcase School, ensuring that the students graduating from this institution will be future-ready.
  • They have also partnered with LEGO, USA, to develop robotic models. In the Robotics Lab, kids have exciting hands-on sessions on making robots again as part of their curriculum, offering an exciting and innovative learning environment.
  • The main goal of MS Dhoni Global School is to mold kids through their “Leader in Me” programs starting from KG itself. Everything they teach and every technology they use is geared towards building leadership skills and preparing kids for the future.
  • The MS Dhoni Global School has expansive 1.5-acre playgrounds with exceptional sports facilities, including 2 tennis courts, 2 basketball courts, 5 cricket nets, and a multipurpose turf, catering to diverse sporting interests among students.

3. Mayoor Chopasni School Jodhpur

Location: Chopasni Rd, Gopal Bari, Jodhpur, Rajasthan.

Fees: Rs. 64,944 – Rs. 67,540

Social Media: Website, Facebook.

Overview:

  • The school follows the CBSE Board and is a day school.
  • Well-equipped Physics, Chemistry, and Biology Labs with customized equipment to suit different curricula and age groups.
  • Specialized Robotics and Computer Labs for hands-on learning.
  • Their library is a central hub for reading, reference materials, and cultural activities and also facilitates literary discussions, small seminars, and knowledge-building initiatives.
  • School buses are equipped with Vehicle Tracking System (VTS) and on-board cameras monitoring speed and route location for enhanced scholar safety and security.
  • Actively participates in district, state, and national-level sports competitions.
  • They offer diverse sporting opportunities and kids actively participate in district, state, and national-level sports competitions.

4. Birla Open Minds International School, Lucknow

Location: Amar Shaheed Path, Awadh Vihar Yojna, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh

Fees: Rs.50,000

Social Media: Website, Facebook.

Overview:

  • The school is affiliated with the CBSE.
  • They provide wheelchair-accessible entrances, a parking lot, a restroom, and seating.
  • They offer separate play areas for pre-primary and primary children, along with extensive sporting facilities for older kids.
  • They provide smart classrooms, modern science and IT labs, and world-class libraries.
  • They offer lush green surroundings outdoors.
  • They provide a range of sports and creative arts facilities for students.

5. The Hyderabad Public School

Location: Sardar Patel Rd, Begumpet, Hyderabad, Telangana.

Fees: Rs. 1,02,516

Social Media: Website, Facebook, Instagram.

Overview:

  • It is a co-educational, day & residential school and follows the ICSE & ISC syllabus.
  • A huge 122-acre campus nestled amidst natural hills and greenery.
  • Varied sports amenities: cricket fields, football grounds, swimming pool, shooting range, and horse riding.
  • Turner’s Library with over 12,000 books, the Melvil Dewey system, and an e-library.
  • Their dining hall is an Architectural gem covering 17,860 square feet, a central hub for community dining.
  • Renovated science labs with hands-on experience and modern facilities.
  • Renovated Gym space spanning 1,650 square feet, inaugurated by Shri P. Jagadish Reddy.
  • Olympic-sized swimming pool spanning 50 meters.
  • Well-equipped medical facility with a capacity of 14 beds and 24/7 care.

Conclusion

Alright, let’s break it down. Mainstream schools? They’re your regular schools, but don’t let that fool you. These places have got everything you’d expect from a top-notch education spot. They’ve got all the facilities to prep your kids for whatever life throws their way. Now, we’ve talked about why mainstream schools are so important and what they’re all about in this blog. If you’re curious about what to look for to spot a mainstream school, we’ve got you covered. Check out the schools we’ve mentioned for a sneak peek into what mainstream education is all about. 

Oh, and don’t forget to hop onto their websites or swing by in person to get a feel for the vibe. Chatting with other parents can also give you some valuable insight. 

FAQs Related to Types of School: Mainstream Schools

Q1. How to choose the right school?

  • Identify Your Child’s Interests and Strengths: Take note of what your child enjoys doing and where their talents lie, whether it’s sports, arts, or academics.
  • Research Different School Categories: Explore options like mainstream, Niche, New age, and Legacy schools to see which ones align with your child’s interests and educational goals.
  • Consider Learning Styles: Reflect on how your child learns best—whether they thrive in structured environments, prefer hands-on activities, or excel in creative settings.
  • Visit Schools and Gather Information: Schedule visits to potential schools, talk to teachers and students, and ask questions about the curriculum, extracurricular activities, and support services available.
  • Evaluate Practical Factors: Take into account practical considerations such as location, transportation, school hours, and affordability to ensure the chosen school category fits your family’s needs and lifestyle.

Q2. What makes Mainstream schools different from New age schools?

Mainstream schools follow traditional teaching methods and offer a broad curriculum covering various subjects. New age schools, on the other hand, focus on innovative teaching approaches, often incorporating technology and personalized learning methods.

Q3. How do Mainstream Schools prepare students for the future?

Mainstream schools get students ready for the future by teaching important subjects like math, science, and language arts, along with offering fun activities and chances to make friends. They also help kids develop skills like thinking critically, solving problems, and working together—things they’ll need as they grow up. Plus, for students with intellectual disabilities, mainstream schools mean better social skills, more independence, and a bigger social circle outside of family.



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.

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