KOCHI: As part of the implementation of the National Education Policy, there is confusion over the norm of completing six years of age for first standard admission in CBSE schools. Parents are worried whether this norm will be strictly imposed this year. Concerns have been raised about whether students who complete UKG at the age of five will have to spend another year idle or will they be allowed to stay in first standard at the same school next year.

Schools cannot deny admission to their own children who have completed LKG and UKG. Although CBSE has not issued a circular in this regard, Kendriya Vidyalayas have made the six-year rule compulsory. Students currently studying in first standard in KV will have to be re-admitted in the same class.

"The new norm cannot be accepted. It is a decision that affects the future of the children. We have approached CBSE and CM against this.", said TPM Ibrahim Khan State President ,CBSE School Management Association.

"The decision is to move forward with the new norms. By 2032, the first batch will be out in accordance with NEP. The Board's suggestion will be followed.", said Dr. Indira Rajan,National Secretary, General National Council of CBSE

"No CBSE circular has been received. The policy should start in preschool. UKG students cannot be denied further education.", said Rakhi Prince, Principal Sreenarayana Vidyapith, Thripunithura

National Education Policy 2020

Primary Education: Pre-School / Anganwadi, LKG, UKG: 3 years, 3-6 years,

Class 1, 2: 2 years. 6-8 years old

Preparatory: Class 3, 5: 3 years. 8-11 years old

Middle: Class 6, 7,8: 3 years. 11-14 years old.

Secondary: Class 9,12: 4 years. 11-18

A petition has been filed in Delhi court against this norm by Pawan Kumar who states that his daughter will be denied admission as per this rule.