Beginner's guide to IGCSE education

Today when it comes to selecting educational boards for children, parents have a plethora of options to choose from. While most parents prefer the same old traditional SSC board, a few of them prefer exploring what’s good or simply best for their kids and their future.

Here we offer you support and guidance on why you need to choose IGCSE education for your child.

What is IGCSE?

International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) is a reputed organization that offers high quality education catering to 21st century learning. They offer curriculum that matches the international standards, one which is globally accepted and approved. The main aim of IGCSE is to prepare school students for life, helping them develop an informed curiosity and a lasting passion for learning.

How does IGCSE work?

The IGCSE assessments are conducted only by UK approved assessment boards which are either of the two: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) and Edexcel. In India, as of now Cambridge International Examinations take charge of the assessments.

IGCSE is a two year programme for the class 9th and the 10th, and conducts the examinations either in summers i.e. in May or either in winter i.e. November. Once a student passes IGCSE he/she is eligible for any +2 level qualifications, like class 12 CBSE/ ICSE or any international pre-university programme, like the IB Diploma, Advanced Placement Diploma (US), and A/AS Level & AICE (UK).

Like other modern programmes, IGCSE offers a wider range of subjects. They educate and nurture students through a practical approach to learning and development. Moreover the assessment is not limited to conventional written papers; instead they also conduct a variety of oral and listening tests simultaneously.

Renowned IGCSE schools in Mumbai

IGCSE schools in Mumbai are considered the best- among- best when it comes to providing quality education. A few years ago there were a few international schools in the city, however with the rising demand by both schools and parents, IGCSE have outnumbered the other board schools at a fast pace.

RBKIS is one such IGCSE school in Bhayander that’s best in the city. The school provides broad holistic and international education to all students in a pleasant environment. With an aim to build a strong foundation for a bright future, the school strives to impart quality education to students through modern techniques, technology, and expert guidance of well trained and experienced teachers in international forte.

This IGCSE School in Bhayander is a learner centric school with world class infrastructure and a congenial surrounding. The school rightly strikes a balance between academics, co-curricular and extracurricular activities and provides ample opportunities for healthy development of mind and body.

RBKIS is easily accessible and well connected to the other parts of the city. So even if you happen to look out for an IGCSE school in Mira road or somewhere near Dahisar region, RBKIS will be the best choice for you.

How does IGCSE support schools?

IGCSE’s supports schools to develop learners who are:

• Engaged intellectually and socially, and ready to make a difference

• Confident in working with information and ideas – their own and those of others

• Innovative and capable of taking new and future challenges

• Reflective and have the ability to learn more

• Responsible for themselves and have respect for others

Opportunities worldwide with IGCSE
IGCSE is an international passport to progression and opens up global opportunities for your child.  Since IGCSE qualification is recognised worldwide, leading universities around the world and employers view it as a valuable certificate of achievement, bearing the international brand name in mind.

5 Super foods to boost your child’s growth

Schools like RBKIS – A level school in Mumbai - encourages kids in multiple activities, hence children need good nutrition to help them concentrate at school and to fuel their day to day activities. 

Being physically and mentally active is important for growing bodies. So whether your child is studying in one of the top 10 IGCSE schools in Mumbai or in any other normal board school, as parents it’s important to provide kids with the foods that will boost their overall growth and development.

Here are top 5 super foods to boost your child’s growth

1. Beans 

High in protein and packed with vitamins and minerals, beans are an excellent food choice for your kids. All types of beans have amazing health benefits. However, kidney and pinto beans contain more omega-3 fats and are important for brain growth and function.  Beans provide more energy to younger kids and help them concentrate in the classroom and during other extra curriculum activities.

2. Mushrooms

Mushrooms help in fighting flu, common cold and other infections. They are a major source of the immune system boosting mineral—zinc.  Various types of mushrooms have varying antiviral, antibacterial and anti-tumour effects. 

So next time you offer your child a nutritional meal, try adding mushrooms to your rice pulav, vegetable gravy or your grilled sandwich. You can even add mushrooms to soups and salads, for a healthier meal. 

3. Carrots

Carrots fight infections and are great source of nutrients for sharp eyesight. Carrots are an excellent source of beta carotene - that supports body’s mucus membrane lining the intestinal and respiratory tracts, making it harder for bacteria to enter the bloodstream and cause diseases. 

For a healthy colourful nutritious meal, include carrots in your child’s diet. The bright colour of carrots is sure to please you child, be it any day.

4. Milk, Yogurt and Cheese

Milk, yogurt and cheese are nutritious and packed with protein and vitamin – B which are essential for growth of brain tissue. Another benefit is - these foods are high in calcium which is vital for growth of strong and healthy teeth and bones.  Children have different requirements for calcium depending on their age, but as parents you should aim to include two to three calcium-rich sources a day.  

How to find the best school for your kids when you move to a different location

Helping your child move and settle into a new home and a new neighbourhood is always going to be difficult, but finding the best school for your child will be even harder.

However we hope the following steps will help you make the best choice for your kids:

Make a list
Before you start your search, list down the kind of school you and your child are looking for.
Ask few questions like......

Would your kid do better in a small school or a large one? Will a strong sports or theatre program make all the difference for your child? Does your kid like a structured learning environment, or does
he thrive when he has some independence?

Once you finish your analyses, it will help you narrow down your search better.

Visit the schools
Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, set up a time to meet the teachers, principals or administration staff.

Check for things like:

• What is the school’s disciplinary policy?
• What curriculum the school follows? 
• How does this school supervise students’ progress toward meeting grade-level standards?
• How is technology used to support learning and development at this school?
• What addition extracurricular activities are available for students? Etc.............

When you visit the school, you are able to get a clear picture about the school’s environment. Moreover, it helps you gain confidence, when you interact with the school management and other students.

Find what is the school's reputation?

When students choose a school, they're essentially choosing their future. They're deciding which school will be on their resume for the rest of their life and where they'll network with future professionals. Hence it’s very important that you check the school’s reputation, before you go ahead with the registration.

Check if the school is officially recognised. Look up reviews online. Check for news stories involving the school and its parent company etc.

E.g. RBKIS an IGCSE school in Bhayander is well recognised all over Mumbai. With IGCSE - the world's most popular international qualification in hand, the school promises to build up a strong foundation for your child’s future.

RBKIS is one of the eminent and distinguished institutes in western suburbs, Mumbai. So if you are looking for an IGCSE school in Mira road, or somewhere near Dahishar, then RBKIS is the best option for your kids.

Remember, reputation matters, in education and beyond. Choose your kid’s school carefully: it is likely to set the tone for his/her’s professional reputation.

Have a back-up plan
Be sure to have a back-up plan ready, in case the school you choose doesn’t work out. Find out if there are slots available and what enrolment procedures are at your back-up schools. That way, if things don’t go well for your child at the new school, you can move your kid quickly without starting the process all over again.

For example, you have selected an IGCSE school in Thane, but for some reason, you are unhappy with the location, or are unsure with your selection. During such instance, immediately look for other schools around in the nearby area. Doing so, will save your time, and most importantly, will save your child’s academic year.