Cambridge launches ILA programme

Srinagar, Dec 13: Cambridge University Press & Assessment launched its Integrated Learning & Assessment (ILA) programme recently.

A statement said that 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 was launched in Srinagar, on Thursday, where over 30 school leaders convened for a thought-provoking session on the theme ‘Bridging Futures: The Role of English in Global Competence’. The event, which had a series of discussions around the role of English as a skill, brought together educational leaders from a variety of institutions around the city.

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.

Arun Rajamani, Managing Director, Cambridge University Press & Assessment, South Asia said: “Cambridge has always emphasised future skills, and our learner attributes are the cornerstone of our curriculum. By ensuring that the skills our learners acquire today prepare them for the jobs of tomorrow, we aim to address the employability challenges and opportunities the current generation faces. With ILA, we are supporting the development of essential English language skills at the foundational level in schools across the country.”

“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.

Cambridge also inaugurated its first authorised exam centre, Oasis Educational Institute, during the event. The plaque for the authorised exam centre was awarded by Rajamani to Aashiq Masoodi, Chairman of Oasis Educational Institute.

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.