In Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu, a teacher named Christina Sara is bringing new energy and joy into her classroom. Christina teaches Grades 1 to 3 at Panchayat Union Middle School. Christina believes that children learn best when they are happy and engaged. For the last 15 years, Christina has been teaching young children. Over time, she has seen big changes in how teaching and learning happen especially since the start of a new programme in Tamil Nadu called Ennum Ezhuthum (a government-led program in Tamil Nadu, India, aimed at improving foundational literacy and numeracy skills among primary school students, particularly in government schools)

A Teacher Who Loves What She Does

Christina has always loved teaching. She says, I enjoy trying different ways of teaching. I keep changing my methods until I find what works best for my students.  Her willingness to try new ideas has helped her make learning fun and effective for every child in her class. Since the Ennum Ezhuthum Mission began, classrooms in Tamil Nadu have changed a lot, instead of just desks and blackboards, there are now different corners or activity areas for storytelling, puppetry, reading, music, arts and crafts, quizzes and even yoga or dance.

Christina says, ‘These corners help children enjoy school. They can read quietly, act out stories with puppets, sing songs, or paint with colours, it is not about memorising anymore—it’s about learning through fun.’

Teaching Materials That Make Learning Easy

One of the big changes Christina appreciates is the use of Teaching-Learning Materials (TLMs). These are simple tools—like puppets, flashcards, stones, charts, or videos—that help explain topics in a way children can understand. Christina also uses a Teacher’s Handbook provided under the Ennum Ezhuthum programme. It gives her step-by-step ideas for lessons and activities, which saves time and helps her plan better.

Students Who Are Excited to Learn

Christina sees a clear change in her students, even students who were once shy or behind in class are now participating more and it is because now learning feels like a game, not a chore. Christina continues to try new teaching methods to make learning fun for her students.

She says, ‘I look at new tools with interest. I’m not afraid to try new things, the Teacher’s handbook helps, but I also like creating my own materials for my class.’

Her creative and flexible teaching style has helped turn her classroom into a place where children feel safe, curious and excited to learn.