From chalkboards to creativity

Empowering teachers through training
In rural Nepal, the classroom has traditionally been a place of rote learning — rows of children reciting facts from a blackboard, with little space for curiosity or creativity. But in communities where First Steps works, that model is changing.

Through our teacher training programmes, we are equipping early years educators with the tools and confidence to transform their classrooms into vibrant, child-centred learning spaces.

Why Teacher Training Matters

A school building is only as strong as the teachers inside it. That’s why First Steps focuses on building local capacity — not just physical infrastructure.

In many rural areas, teachers have limited or no formal early years teacher training. They rely on outdated, textbook-driven methods. Our hands-on workshops offer a practical alternative: interactive, play-based learning that supports the holistic development of young children.

Creative Classrooms in Action

Thanks to our ongoing training, teachers are now using stories, songs, games, and locally sourced materials to make learning engaging and meaningful.

Rigid rows of benches are being replaced with learning corners filled with handmade resources and student artwork. Children are learning through play, exploration, and imagination.

"We used to only use the blackboard. Now we use games and stories. The children are much more involved," – Teacher, Nuwakot District

A Ripple Effect of Change

Our approach is sustainable — we train Nepali educators who remain in their communities.. As more teachers adopt child-friendly methods, more children thrive in school. Parents begin to value education more deeply, especially for girls.

Every training session sparks long-term change — in classrooms, in homes, and across generations.

From chalkboards to creativity, the shift is real — and your support makes it possible.
When you support First Steps Himalaya, you're not just funding materials or buildings. You're helping teachers open new worlds for the next generation of learners.