The Soul of Education by James Biddulph, Nitesh Gor

The Soul of Education is a deeply integrative exploration (both spiritual and secular) of what it means to reclaim the moral, spiritual and relational heart of schooling. Drawing together contemporary educational research, insights from Vedic philosophy and lived practice, the book invites readers to re-examine the purposes and possibilities of education in a rapidly changing world.

Through interconnected chapters, the authors present a soul-led vision of education, grounded in teachings from the Bhagavad Gītā and Vedic thought. They explore how beliefs, virtues and values shape character, agency and wellbeing in school life, while critiquing the performative pressures and utilitarian aims that have eroded the “soul” of modern schooling. Central to the book is the Tree of Life framework, which integrates Educational Excellence, Character Formation and Spiritual Insight to create a holistic ecology of learning beyond religious designations or traditions. Practical examples and classroom anecdotes illustrate how educators and parents can foster inner growth through listening, reflection, meditation and compassionate action.

This book is ideal for educators, parents, policymakers and anyone invested in the future of education. It speaks to those seeking alternatives to materialism and performativity, offering tools to address the challenges of growing up in a technologically advanced, socially fragmented world.