Quality Education Support Trust

Anupad is a tiered programme catering to students in grades 5 to 8 who are lagging behind in literacy and Mathematics. It acknowledges the diverse achievement levels within the same grade and employs diagnostic tests to gauge individual proficiency. Based on these results, students of similar proficiency are grouped together for targeted instruction, usually 45 minutes per subject per day. Anupad's curriculum is tailored to accommodate the pace and age maturity of these students. Through the creation of booklets called 'Saksham Banu Ya,' QUEST offers structured guidance to educators in programme implementation. Complementing the booklets, the programme includes a well-stocked classroom library and pertinent teaching materials, enhancing the overall learning experience.

QUEST's Shikshak programme addresses the crucial aspect of ongoing professional development for teachers. Through a unique blend of in-person sessions and online support, the programme focuses on enhancing teaching practices for teachers working with students from grades 1 to 8. Notably, these courses are pioneering as they are conducted in both regional (Marathi) and English languages. The programme's objective is not only to deepen teachers' subject knowledge but also to equip them with effective tools and techniques for content delivery. Based on the latest research in mathematics education and language literacy pedagogy, the content aids teachers in understanding how children grasp subjects and guide them in employing appropriate instructional methods. A standout feature of the Shikshak programme is its online mentoring, which provides teachers with support during classroom assignments, facilitating the practical implementation of the learned strategies.

The Goshtarang programme utilizes theatrical performances to introduce children to literature, specifically in underserved regions. These performances aim to foster a reading culture and engage students through carefully chosen stories presented by trained artists. Following each performance, library activities further enhance literacy skills. The initiative's impact extends to over 25,000 students, promoting literacy and a love for literature. The Goshtarang Fellowship offers theatre enthusiasts a ten-month immersive experience, dramatizing stories and connecting children with literature, theatre, music, and dance. Through various workshops and activities, the programme enriches education and ignites creativity in underserved areas.

The organisation, through its Palavee programme, aims to enhance the Early Childhood Education (ECE) experience for children aged 3 to 6 in Anganwadis. In collaboration with the Government, QUEST serves as the knowledge partner, providing training and on-site support to transform Anganwadis into dynamic centres of learning. The Palvee intervention spans three years, focusing on building resource teams in each beat during the first year, which then conducts training workshops in the subsequent two years for universalizing the programme. The intervention includes six stages of input, introducing activities for motor development initially and progressing to more instructionally demanding cognitive and literacy activities. The programme's design adapts to the learning curve of Anganwadi workers, gradually increasing the duration of ECE activities to create a successful and motivating learning environment.

The organisation runs Shikshan Samruddhi Kendra (SSK), a pivotal hub for knowledge generation that informs its various initiatives. SSK, led by trained local youth known as 'Balamitra,' focuses on language, math, and early literacy, creating teaching materials and training. This innovative school-plus programme also functions as a training and demonstration site. Catering mainly to grades 1 to 8, SSK employs interactive, child-centred methods to bolster foundational learning. Balbhavan targets grades 1 to 4, strengthening language and math, while Anupad aids struggling grades 5 to 8 students in literacy and math. Over 12 years, SSK has showcased QUEST's impact, setting pioneering programmes like Palavee, bridging learning gaps, and promoting a culture of collaborative education.