From classroom teaching to vocational training here is an opportunity to use your skills.

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 centre 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.


Your role: 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 really is an exceptional opportunity for your gap year. Get involved in a variety of areas and use your creative skills to the maximum.

What you gain: This is a fantastic gap year opportunity for anyone who enjoys working with children and young adults and also with any special skills to impart. It is also an incredibly rewarding experience to be able to help provide a quality education to some of the city's most marginalised children.

Working in an environment with a mix of backgrounds and abilities will give you a perspective on the challenges that India as a nation faces in tackling so many development issues. This project also gives you an insight into the life of the 26 million disabled people living in the country and constantly struggling to be part of mainstream India.