CBSE Eases Pre-Nursery School Rules Under NEP From 2026-27
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has introduced new affiliation rules allowing existing CBSE-affiliated schools to establish branch schools from Balvatika to Class 5 within the same city. This move, effective from the 2026-27 academic session, aims to address space shortages, particularly in urban areas.
New Affiliation Bye-Laws for Branch Schools
Under the Affiliation Bye-Laws (Branch School)-2025, CBSE-affiliated schools can now apply to set up branch schools. These schools will cater to students from Balvatika (pre-primary) to Class 5, while the main school will continue to accommodate Classes 6 to 12.
CBSE Chairperson Rahul Singh stated that the initiative is designed to overcome land and space constraints, ensuring smooth implementation of Balvatika classes in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Balvatika aims to prepare children aged 3 to 6 years for formal schooling through play-based learning.
Key Features of the New Rule
- Separate Branch Schools: Schools can operate branch schools under the same name, affiliation number, and management but with distinct resources, infrastructure, and staff.
- Dedicated Website Section: The main school’s website must include a dedicated section for the branch school.
- Space Optimization: This structure helps urban schools comply with NEP 2020 without land expansion challenges.
- Kendriya Vidyalaya Model: Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS) had already introduced Balvatika classes in 2023-24 with a three-hour daily schedule.
Impact on Schools and Implementation
Delhi-based schools, where NEP 2020 implementation is pending, see this as a practical solution. Sudha Acharya, principal of ITL Public School, highlighted that if Delhi implements NEP 2020, they would need additional space for Balvatika 1, 2, and 3. The new bye-laws will allow them to run branch schools for Classes up to 5, ensuring better infrastructure management.
Conclusion
CBSE’s decision to introduce branch schools for early education aligns with the objectives of NEP 2020. By easing space constraints, it promotes structured early childhood education while allowing existing schools to expand without acquiring additional land. Schools must now prepare for the 2026-27 academic session, ensuring compliance with the new affiliation guidelines.
