School Visit in Bhutan

Visiting schools in Bhutan can offer a unique opportunity to experience the country’s education system and interact with students and teachers. Bhutan’s education system blends modern education with traditional Buddhist values, and many schools reflect the country’s deep-rooted cultural and religious traditions.

Arranging a School Visit in Bhutan

If you want to visit a school in Bhutan, here are the key steps and considerations:

1. Permissions and Coordination

• Contacting Authorities: Before planning a visit, you need to obtain permission from the school and relevant authorities, such as the Ministry of Education or the local District Education Officer. It’s best to coordinate through a local travel agency or guide, as they can help arrange permissions.
• School Contact: Schools in Bhutan might require official letters explaining the purpose of the visit. If your visit is academic or research-related, it’s important to explain how the visit aligns with Bhutan’s education policies.

2. Choosing the Type of School

Bhutan has different types of schools:

• Government Schools: These are spread across the country and follow Bhutan’s national curriculum. They offer education from primary to higher secondary levels.
• Private Schools: Located mostly in urban areas, private schools follow a similar curriculum but may have additional resources.
• Monastic Schools: These schools provide education based on Buddhist teachings and philosophy, alongside academic subjects. You can choose to visit one depending on your interest in either mainstream academic education or monastic learning.

3. Cultural Considerations

• Respect for Traditions: Bhutanese schools often reflect cultural and religious values. When visiting, it’s important to be respectful of these traditions. Dress modestly (long sleeves, no revealing clothing) and remove shoes before entering school temples or sacred spaces.
• Interaction with Students: Students are usually keen to meet visitors and may showcase their traditional songs, dances, or crafts. If you’re visiting as a group or as part of an exchange program, you might also be invited to participate in classroom activities.

4. Timing Your Visit

• School Calendar: Bhutanese schools typically follow a schedule that includes two major terms:
  • Spring Term: From March to June
  • Autumn Term: From August to December There are breaks during the summer (July) and winter (January-February), so it’s important to plan your visit when schools are in session.

5. School Environment and Learning

• Curriculum: Bhutan’s curriculum includes academic subjects like science, mathematics, and social studies, as well as moral and spiritual education, which emphasizes values like Gross National Happiness (GNH).
• Languages: English and Dzongkha (the national language) are the medium of instruction in most schools. English is used for subjects like math and science, while Dzongkha is taught as a language subject.
• Gross National Happiness (GNH) in Schools: Schools in Bhutan integrate GNH values into their curriculum, teaching students about environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and ethical living.

6. Contributing to the School

If you’re part of an educational program or volunteer group, you may want to bring educational materials, resources, or offer workshops. However, it’s important to communicate with the school in advance to understand their needs and respect their guidelines for donations or contributions.

7. Engaging with Students

• Cultural Exchange: Schools in Bhutan are very open to cultural exchanges. You might have the opportunity to share your own culture through presentations or activities and learn from the Bhutanese students.
• Classroom Observation: Many schools will allow visitors to observe classes, interact with teachers, and discuss educational practices.

8. Notable Schools for Visits

• Royal Academy, Pangbisa: A prestigious school supported by the Bhutanese royal family that integrates a holistic education model based on GNH.
• Chokyi Gyatsho Institute: A Buddhist monastic school in Dewathang, known for blending Buddhist monastic education with modern academic learning.

If you’re visiting Bhutan through a guided tour, the tour operator can assist in organizing the school visit. Always ensure that your visit aligns with the school’s schedule and educational goals for mutual benefit.