International boarding school in the north of India

Bhaktivedanta Gurukula and International School:
Bhaktivedanta Gurukula and International School (BGIS) located in Vrindavan, India. is a primary and secondary boarding school for boys, Grades 3 - 12. The school was founded in 1976 by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the Founder-Acharya of ISKCON.

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Curriculum
As English is the language of instruction, from Grade 5 onwards competency in English is essential. Classes are small (not more than 26 students) which allows for better student-teacher interaction and a more personal, caring atmosphere. The curriculum is divided into three main areas – Academics, Ashram, and Co-curricular.

Academic Curriculum
Grades 1-8.
This is the primary and middle school, the Gurukula. Languages, math, sciences, and social studies are taught at this level. Students also spend time in the library, the computer lab and the e-guru audio visual center.

Grades 9-10.
This is the beginning of the High School program, providing a two-year course in preparation for the ICSE final examination at the end of Grade 10. Students must take seven subjects, four of which are compulsory: English, Hindi (or a foreign or classical language), Social Studies, and Environmental Education. The board does offer a wide range of subject choices. 20% of the final marks are given for in-school project work. Career guidance classes and discussions are introduced at this stage.

Grades 11-12.
Students must pass the ICSE Grade 10 (or equivalency) to enroll in this level. This is a two-year course in preparation for the ISC final examination at the end of Grade 12. Students must take, and pass, a minimum of five subjects; English and Environmental Education are
compulsory. A wide range of subject choices are also available here. This level is similar to the A Levels or any high school finishing course, and the certificate is accepted throughout the world. Career preparation and guidance continue at this level.

The main school examinations are held twice yearly, at the end of each semester. Minor assessments and student profiles are also recorded throughout the year. The ICSE/ ISC finals are held in March.

English:
As English is the language of instruction, from Grade 5 onwards competency in English is essential. Classes are small (not more than 26 students) which allows for better student-teacher interaction and a more personal, caring atmosphere. The curriculum is divided into three main areas – Academics, Ashram, and Co-curricular.

Ashram Curriculum:
The ashram curriculum is based on the Bhagavad-gita and other Vaishnava texts, as presented by Srila Prabhupada, the Founder-Acharya of ISKCON. We teach the ancient system of bhakti-yoga, or Krishna consciousness, which nurtures and develops the sentiment of loving devotion to Lord Krishna. Activities in the ashram include training and practice in chanting japa, kirtan, and bhajans; recitation of Sanskrit shlokas; daily participation in the temple activities of the Krishna-Balaram Mandir in Vrindavan (one of ISKCON’s main international centers); exploring the holy dham of Vrindavan with parikrams, darshans, and harinams; planning, preparing, and celebrating festivals for the pleasure of the Lord; and honoring Ekadasi. Students systematically study the shastra with a daily class.

Because we are located next to a busy international temple we regularly receive visitors from round the world, who give classes and seminars at the school. From lawyers to sannyasis, to educators to business people, all willingly share their expertise with us. High school students are also given classes in the practical application of Vaishnava standards and how to apply them in today’s world – including media awareness, healthy eating habits, information about drugs and alcohol, and maintaining healthy marriages and relationships.

The students’ lifestyle is also part of the ashram curriculum; students live simply, with an emphasis on cleanliness, truthfulness, compassion, and service. There are eighteen students under the guidance of each ashram teacher and his assistant.

Co-curricular Activities
Our co-curricular program includes music (mridanga, harmonium, vocals); drama (both public and in-school performances); art (class activities, projects, competitions); and sports (soccer, cricket, swimming, basketball, volleyball, handball, table tennis, and athletics). The students participate in District, State, and National sporting events. We are very well known for our dramas and mridanga drum performances. The students also participate in community service, such as caring for cows and cleaning Vrindavan.

Yearly and Daily Schedule
The school year begins in early April and ends in mid March, with a two-month summer break in May and June and a three-week break during Diwali (October). There is ten-day break after the final exams in March. The daily schedule consists of the spiritual program, morning and evening, and academics and co-curricular during the day. Students rise at 4am four days a week to attend the temple. On other days they rise at 6am. Sunday is a free day. Sundays and national holidays are family visiting days.