By IANS

September 19, 2023 (IANSlife) From Enid Blyton to J.K. Rowling, authors of children’s books have for centuries created an aura of excitement, mystery, and allure around the extraordinary boarding school life. There is a certain old-world charm to living in the dorms of those old architectural marvels, situated in the lap of nature.

Here are the top 5 residential boarding schools in India that boast a legacy that spans over 100 years. These not only evoke nostalgia for the English classics but also offer the students the best in modern education and the latest amenities to keep them rooted in tradition while also preparing them to thrive in the 21st century.

The Scindia School: Celebrating its 125th anniversary in October 2023, The Scindia School remains a beacon of excellence in education. Situated on a fort with a stunning view of the city of Gwalior, the school’s emphasis on holistic value-based education, continues to shape its 125-year-old legacy. This all-boy residential boarding school began as the Sardar School and served as the learning and training ground for the scions of India’s top royal families. While staying rooted in its values and traditions, the school has evolved to offer the best in modern education and stay committed to its mission of nurturing and transforming young boys into smart, compassionate, and visionary leaders of tomorrow!

Kodaikanal International School: Established in 1901as an American residential school for the children of missionaries in South India, the Kodaikanal International School is a co-educational independent residential school located amidst the stunning hills and valleys of the gorgeous hill station, Kodaikanal, in Tamil Nadu. The first international school in India and the third in Asia to introduce the International Baccalaureate Diploma program in 1976, the school now offers a complete IB Curriculum which includes, PYP, MYP, and IBDP.

The Lawrence School Sanawar: Established in 1847, The Lawrence School Sanawar,is the oldest private boarding school in Himachal Pradesh, which is located near Solan city. Co-educational from the beginning, the school started with fourteen girls and boys who arrived at Sanawar in the charge of Henry Lawrence's sister-in-law Charlotte Lawrence, wife of George Lawrence, and superintendent Healey. In May 2013, Sanawar created history by becoming the first school in the world to send a team of seven students and climb Mount Everest. The school is affiliated to India's Central Board of Secondary Education.

Bishop Cotton School, Shimla: Founded in July 1859 by Bishop George Edward Lynch Cotton, Bishop Cotton School, Shimla, is one of the oldest boarding schools for boys in Asia. Bishop Cotton was inspired by the phrase, "Overcome Evil with Good" from Romans 12:21. The school celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2009.

Mayo College, Ajmer: Spread across 187 acres of lush green fields, Mayo College, Ajmer, is a boys-only private boarding school. Established in 1875 by Richard Bourke, 6th Earl of Mayo, who was the Viceroy of India from 1869 to 1872, Mayo College is one of the oldest public boarding schools in India. In April 1986, the Indian Postal Service released a stamp showing the main building of Mayo College along with the emblem of the college. The multicolour stamp was designed by India Security Press. Along with international exchange programmes and access to cutting-edge technology, Mayo College, Ajmer is also committed to teaching and practicing all the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) laid down by the United Nations.

With a rich legacy that spans well over a century, these boarding schools, have played an important role in shaping India’s educational landscape. What sets them apart is the ability to maintain a healthy balance between the traditional as well as the best in modern ideologies and amenities.

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