Calcutta casebook. How one Indian school transformed itself into a universal benchmark

Recent research commissioned by the Education Group of the Department for International Development (India) examined contemporary models of ‘best practice’ in primary and secondary schooling, in an attempt to identify generic indicators that characterise ‘good’ schools. These indicators have ranged from the school’s value system, its academic achievements and the quality of interpersonal relations, to leadership, community building and provision of adequate resources. One school in Calcutta provides a uniquely interesting model of best practice. The research report identifies characteristics and values that have made the Loreto Day School, Sealdah, an example of best practice in its pursuit of both excellence and equity.