About the Organisation: Established almost 20 years ago, this is an incredible and very successful school that educates children from all sections of society. The ethos is all about encouraging the integration of disabled children into the mainstream by using education, sports and cultural activities.
The school also doubles as a center for vocational training and income generation for members of the community. Young adults also come here to learn a huge variety of vocational skills that can secure them skilled employment. Alongside these activities the managing committee also runs medical services, a child guidance clinic and undertakes social work.
Who they are: The school was started in 1988 to teach children with disability and help with vocational training for people with disabilities.
Prime movers in its foundation were its current chairperson, one of
Delhi’s prominent citizens, who has dedicated her life to the cause of helping people with disabilities take their place in mainstream society.
What they do: The school now has a 50/50 mix of disabled and able-bodied children and also acts as a vocational training centre for members of the community, especially young adults with disabilities. The teaching style at the school is very formal with a distinct ‘Indian flavor’ that is very different to current teaching techniques in the UK. It is important to accept this style and work with the teachers to see if there are ways you can contribute to changing/improving the way education is delivered.
Alongside all the teaching and training activities previously mentioned there is also a physiotherapy unit, which provides treatment for pupils and members of the community. It has an occupational therapy unit providing nature and yoga care, hydrotherapy, mud and sun baths and yoga. It also has plenty of space for sports.
This truly is the holistic approach that the founders were looking to achieve almost 20 years ago.
What you can do: There are many things for you to get involved in at this school and your role really depends on where your skills and interests lie. Those interested in teaching can assist out in the classroom, working alongside the existing teaching staff to enhance the quality of education and improve materials. You can also help out in the computer lab, imparting your computer skills and knowledge to children and older members of the community. Arts & crafts, dance, music and drama are also used for teaching and therapeutic purposes.
This project is especially good for volunteers with their own special interests or skills, as there is a wide variety of vocational training going on including carpentry, pickle and chutney making, weaving, block printing, tailoring, beautician training (hair and make-up), arts & crafts, bakery and electrical technician training. Anyone with skills in these areas would be a huge asset to the school. You could divide your time between teaching and these other programmes. This makes the project a great option for gap year students and career breakers alike.