National, 14 December’24 – To equip learners with essential future skills for a competitive global landscape, Cambridge University Press & Assessment has launched its Integrated Learning and Assessment (ILA) programme recently. This programme is designed to provide a holistic English Language learning experience for students in grades 1-8. ILA joins other Cambridge future skills initiatives like Cambridge Climate Quest and Young Pioneers, that equip learners to develop skills for a globalised world.

The new ILA programme, aligned with national (NCF 2022-23) and international (CEFR) standards, provides a cohesive English language learning experience for students in grades 1–8. ILA charts a learning journey that shifts the focus from assessment of learning to assessment for learning and promotes holistic language acquisition and LSRW (listening, speaking, reading writing) skills development. It integrates curriculum-aligned content with international standards to ensure thorough skill development and evaluation.

India has a substantial skills gap, with the 2024 Economic Survey showing that only 51.25% of young people are employable. Within this larger skill gap, there persists the need to develop English proficiency to conquer global opportunities. India is witnessing an all-time high demand for overseas education, with a record 1.33 million Indian students pursuing higher education abroad in 2024, according to data from the Ministry of External Affairs. Proficiency in English has emerged as a critical criterion for these students to secure admission to prestigious international universities and their careers. This initiative aligns with industry demands and workforce trends to navigate and excel in tomorrow’s economy.

Arun Rajamani, Managing Director, Cambridge University Press & Assessment, South Asia said: “The changes underway with NEP 2020 are a positive step, and the government’s ongoing initiatives to impart skills are encouraging. Cambridge has always emphasised future skills, and our learner attributes are the cornerstone of our curriculum. While working with government initiatives like NSDC and TNSDC, we realised that the focus must start at the core level to effectively bridge the skills gap and enhance employability. With ILA, we are supporting the development of essential English language skills at the foundational level in schools across the country.”

Aligned with the National Curriculum Frameworks 2022 and 2023, NEP, as well as the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), this programme charts a learning journey that integrates both national and international educational standards that ensures holistic education to thrive in a global environment. This practice-based solution is designed to empower learners to enhance their English language skills in a day-to-day context.

“The Integrated Learning and Assessment Solution – Level-up Vantage, is the most innovative solution available with schools to support superior language learning with a clear focus on skill building. This practice-based solution shifts classroom learning from traditional tasks to skill-driven knowledge. Partner schools can now support their CBSE/ICSE Curriculum along with meeting international CEFR benchmarks for language learning. It further supports government’s efforts to close the skills gap. By addressing challenges related to balancing subject knowledge and internationally benchmarked skills, this curriculum-based approach better engages learners and aligns their interests with the development of both subject understanding and essential skills,” said Arunachalam TK, Regional Director (English) – South Asia, Cambridge University Press & Assessment.

Exposure to a uniquely diverse range of texts prepares learners for future success, particularly for competency-based assessments at the Board level. The Practice Books also provide targeted preparation for the Cambridge English Qualifications. Under ILA, classroom learning focuses not just on traditional tasks but also on skill-driven knowledge. It focuses on bridging the gap between in-classroom and at-home learning with language learning activities. The reinforcement takes place through CGO access and access to the CEC pages at home. Learning outcome checklists are provided to facilitate the ongoing assessment and enhancement of teaching and learning effectiveness. They enable educators to monitor learner progress and adjust instructional strategies as needed. Ready-made competency-based assessments are available to streamline the evaluation process and provide a clear picture of student mastery of key skills and knowledge.

Cambridge’s future skills initiative(s) aim to equip learners with essential skills for the future, focusing on communication, entrepreneurship, and climate literacy. The Young Pioneers programme (grades 7-10) combines curriculum-based learning with masterclasses, mentorship, and projects to foster innovation and entrepreneurial skills. Complementing this, Cambridge Climate Quest is designed to create climate awareness, literacy, and action among young learners, particularly students in Grades 8 to 12 and integrates climate education across various subjects, emphasising real-world applications and grassroots action.