The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) is gearing up for a significant evaluation of foundational learning levels among young students in the national capital. In a collaborative initiative with the Delhi State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), NCERT will conduct the Foundational Learning Study (FLS) for students at the Grade 3 level during the current academic year.
What is the Foundational Learning Study?
This major assessment is designed to gauge how effectively children are acquiring essential reading, writing, and numeracy skills by the conclusion of their foundational stage of education. The exercise is a critical component of the broader efforts to strengthen early education under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Importantly, the NCERT has clarified that the FLS is not a formal examination or test. It is a diagnostic survey that will not involve grading individual students or certifying schools. Instead, its findings will be used to shape future policy decisions and enhance classroom teaching methodologies.
Schedule and Preparations Underway
The study is tentatively scheduled for February-March 2026 and will be held in a selection of sampled schools across Delhi. The final list of participating institutions will be shared in advance. To ensure both teachers and students are well-prepared for the format, NCERT has already distributed sample assessment tasks in both Hindi and English. The SCERT has directed school heads and principals to ensure that Class 3 teachers engage students with these sample activities to boost understanding and readiness.
Schools have also received advice to expose children to a variety of practice questions that align with the shared samples. This step is intended to build familiarity with the assessment process and reinforce core competencies. The active cooperation of schools has been highlighted as vital for the smooth execution of the study and for achieving the ultimate goal of promoting robust foundational learning outcomes.
A Tool for Systemic Improvement
The ultimate purpose of this large-scale study extends far beyond a simple assessment. The data gathered will serve as a crucial evidence base to inform strategic decisions at the policy level. It will help identify gaps and strengths in the current system, allowing for targeted interventions to improve classroom practices. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to implementing NEP 2020's vision of ensuring that every child achieves solid foundational literacy and numeracy, which are the building blocks for all future learning.
By focusing on Class 3 students, the study aims to capture a clear picture of learning outcomes at a pivotal stage, providing actionable insights to strengthen the entire foundational education ecosystem in Delhi and potentially offer a model for other states.
