In its work with low-cost private schools in rural areas, Shriram Foundation has found that no systematic instruction on values is imparted to the students in most schools. Teaching values to children in an attractive but impactful way is a challenge to teachers and school managements. With a view to correct this lacuna, SF identified a value education program through short films for children developed by LXL Ideas Pvt. Ltd., a Bengaluru based company. School Cinema is a film-based module that makes learning lessons of life an entertaining experience. It reaffirms life skills and values for students, parents and educators through award-winning films and engaging activities.

The School Cinema approach encompasses modelling and mentoring, participation, experience, expressive work, reflection and introspection. The role of the teacher is that of a role model, one who is non-judgemental and empathetic.

The program comprises 10 student movies shown one per month, one teacher movie and one parent movie. A facilitator’s manual and synopsis is also provided by School Cinema. The sessions will incorporate settling time, movie screening, summarizing the movie by the students and the teacher, discussions, activities and evaluation.

School Cinema has become part of the curriculum in Shriram Matriculation Schools, Chennai and Guntur as well as the 25 Krishna District schools supported by SF from the academic year 2017-18. Model lesson plans have been developed by SF and training program conducted for teachers in these schools to run the sessions for Classes 4 to 9.