Classrooms Without Backbenchers: Schools Adopt Inclusive Seating

Schools Redesign Classrooms to Ensure Equal Learning for Every Student

Schools in India are changing the way students sit in classrooms. A new trend has started in states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Punjab, where schools are moving away from traditional row seating and adopting U-shaped and semicircular seating formats. This change is not just about furniture—it’s about creating equal opportunities for all students.

Inspired by a Scene in a Malayalam Film

Interestingly, this movement was inspired by a classroom scene in the Malayalam movie "Sthanarthi Sreekuttan." In the film, a student suggests that all children should sit equally and face the teacher for better understanding and inclusion. This simple idea has now started a real transformation in schools.

What’s Changing in Classrooms?

Traditionally, classrooms were arranged in rows where the front benches were seen as “for toppers” and the back benches were often ignored. The new system replaces that with:

• U-shaped seating

• Semicircular layouts

• Cluster or group seating

In these arrangements, every student is equally close to the teacher. There is no “front” or “back,” helping reduce academic pressure and social division inside the classroom.

Why Schools Are Adopting This Format

Schools are now realising that equal seating encourages equal learning. The idea is to create a space where every child feels seen, heard, and involved.

Key reasons for the shift include:

• Better student participation

• Stronger peer interaction

• Reduced feeling of inferiority or isolation

• More comfortable and stress-free learning environment

Teachers also find it easier to interact with all students when everyone is facing them equally.

States Leading the Change

• Kerala: Known for educational reforms, Kerala schools quickly embraced the idea after the movie gained popularity.

• Tamil Nadu: Several government schools have redesigned classrooms for better student engagement.

• West Bengal & Punjab: Educators in these states are experimenting with flexible seating in both urban and rural schools.

This change is being praised by both parents and teachers for its impact on student behavior and learning interest.

The Impact So Far

Early feedback shows that students are:

• More active in discussions

• Less afraid to speak up

• Happier and more relaxed during lessons

• Better connected with both teachers and classmates

The physical change in the classroom is creating a positive mental shift as well.

A Step Toward Inclusive Education

This new seating format supports the goals of inclusive education, which is a key part of India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. It breaks down invisible barriers created by classroom hierarchy and helps every student feel equally important.

Final Thoughts

The move to classrooms without backbenchers is more than a design change—it’s a step toward fairness in education. Inspired by a simple movie scene, this shift is now helping real students feel more confident and included. As more schools join in, this model could soon become the standard for modern and equal learning spaces across India.