Question 1

What is an English medium school?

Accepted Answer

An English medium school is an educational institution where the primary language of instruction and communication is English. In English medium schools, English is used as the medium of instruction for all subjects, including mathematics, science and social studies in addition to English language classes.

Question 2

What are the distinguishing features of an English medium school?

Accepted Answer

Language Proficiency: English medium schools emphasize the development of English language skills among students. The goal is to ensure that students become proficient in reading, writing, speaking and understanding English, which is considered a global language of communication.
Curriculum: English medium schools follow a curriculum that aligns with the educational standards of the respective country or educational system. The curriculum covers a wide range of subjects and is taught in English. It may include core subjects such as mathematics, science, social studies, languages and additional subjects like arts, physical education and technology.
International Recognition: English medium schools often aim to provide education that is internationally recognized and accepted. This can be beneficial for students who may wish to pursue higher education or career opportunities in English-speaking countries or in multinational organizations that use English as a primary language.
Multicultural Environment: English medium schools often attract a diverse student population, including students from different linguistic and cultural backgrounds. This creates a multicultural environment where students have the opportunity to interact with peers from various backgrounds, promoting cross-cultural understanding and communication skills.
English Language Support: English medium schools may offer additional support for students who have limited English language proficiency. This can include specialized language classes, English language immersion programs, or support from language specialists or tutors to help students improve their English skills.
Preparation for English Language Exams: In some cases, English medium schools may focus on preparing students for standardized English language proficiency exams such as IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language). These exams are often required for admission to universities or for immigration purposes in English-speaking countries.

Question 3

What are the benefits of English medium school?

Accepted Answer

Studies have shown that bilingualism promotes cognitive benefits in children such as improved problem-solving ability, improved memory skills and higher creativity.
Being proficient in English is an added advantage for students if they have to take transfer from one part of the country to another. This is because English is the common language in almost all the states of India.
English is the lingua franca in many countries, so being proficient in English brings with it the added advantage of opening the doors to higher studies in foreign countries.

Question 4

Who started English education in India?

Accepted Answer

English was made the medium of instruction in 1835 AD under the rule of Governor General Lord William Bentinck, upon the advice of his Council member Thomas Babington Macaulay. Macaulay is considered as the Father of English medium education in India.

Question 5

Which is the first English medium school in India?

Accepted Answer

The first English medium school in India was St. George’s Anglo Indian Higher Secondary school set up in Madras (modern day Chennai) in 1715 AD affiliated to the Anglo-Indian Board of Education. It is one of the oldest schools in India.

English Medium School In Gajapati

St. Joseph's English Medium School

Frequently Asked Questions