Barefoot Teachers’ Training Programme

A four-day Barefoot Teachers’ Training Programme was successfully conducted at the premises of Kolkata Mary Ward Social Centre (KMWSC) on 1st, 2nd, 4th and 5th December 2025, engaging 25 aspiring grassroots teachers committed to working with children from underserved communities. The training aimed to strengthen foundational teaching skills while nurturing a child-friendly and rights-based approach to education.

The programme began in a reflective and positive spirit with a prayer, followed by an introduction to the history, philosophy, and relevance of the Barefoot Teachers’ Training model. An interactive ice-breaking session allowed participants to introduce themselves, share their hobbies, and explain the meaning of their names, helping to create a warm and participatory learning environment. Trainers gradually introduced key themes that would be explored in depth during the training.

Participants were encouraged to actively contribute through presentations on the qualities of a good teacher and the diverse characteristics of children. Their enthusiasm and confidence were evident as they shared insights drawn from both personal experience and group discussions. A major focus area was classroom management, where participants learned about joyful learning practices, maintaining discipline with empathy, understanding equity versus equality, and promoting positive mannerisms and good habits among children. Open discussions ensured that doubts and practical concerns were addressed comprehensively.

To enhance engagement and practical learning, participants took part in hands-on sessions on creating Teaching Learning Materials (TLMs). Using simple and low-cost resources, they prepared colourful learning aids on alphabets, numbers, fruits, and vegetables, understanding how visual and interactive materials help sustain children’s attention. The training also included an important session on the Four Pillars of Child Rights and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), reinforcing the need for a rights-based educational approach.

The programme concluded with lively action rhymes and fun games to prevent monotony, followed by a certification ceremony acknowledging the participants’ dedication and learning journey.

“Nurturing teachers who inspire learning, dignity, and joy in every classroom.”

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