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New Session – 2009

The new academic session began on the 11^th of  February 2009 with a two day Orientation Programme for the teachers. It was conducted by Fr. Frances SJ from the Loyola B.Ed. College with emphasis on motivated teaching and class room management. It helped the teachers to refresh themselves for the new academic session.

The classes began on the 14^th of February with a prayer service invoking God’s blessings. Sixty students were admitted to LKG this year indicating that more & more villagers understand the importance of education.

British student Spends A Month At St Mary's, February - March 2008

Tom Seward from Devon in England has taken a gap year between high school and further education and has just spent a month at the school, here is his report:

“After a long journey down some steep and often rather alarming roads, I arrived at St Mary's School on Saturday  8th of March and was welcomed by the four sisters who teach and run the school. After my first cup of Singla tea I spent the rest of the evening unpacking and settled in to the relaxed environment. However, this relaxation was short lived, as Monday morning soon came around.

My introduction to the smartly dressed students and teachers was made by the School's Principal sister Anupa. As expected many of them were a little nervous at first. This quickly changed as they grew in confidence and my basic understanding of Nepali got better.

I taught three main subjects whilst at the School, English, geography and physical education/games. This was very enjoyable and gradually the feedback and comments in class were more structured. It was through sport and games that my relationship with the students was cemented.

Cricket and Soccer were originally their preferred games. However when I produced a Rugby ball there was confusion, interest and eventually mayhem. With a very basic understanding of the rules they ran riot around the school's drill/playground. It was great to see them experiencing something new.

In all lessons I focused on teaching English as a spoken Language and tried to educate them on Europe and Britain. Many of the students have an excellent understanding of the language but struggle to make conversation as they are either shy or cannot get the words together. I noticed a real improvement in this area towards the end of my time there with numerous students approaching me and asking questions.

The classes and students were all great to be with and the students all showed such eagerness to learn and develop. The facilities and provisions at the school are being constantly improved and it is evident that the help that Securewest International provides is hugely important.

I am most grateful to John Casson and his staff in India for providing me with the opportunity to visit St Mary's. My time spent there was truly brilliant and I just hope that the student's got as much out of it as I did.”

And the students did, Tom had a marvellous time and the school benefitted from his visit. If you are a student of teacher and can help the school please visit Volunteers

Change of Principle

After six years at St Mary’s school sister Andrea has moved on to new challenges at a school in the northern Indian state of Sikkim.

During her time at the St Mary’s sister Andrea has overseen the successful expansion of the school and continued improved standards. Much loved she will be sadly missed but no doubt will keep in touch.

Congratulations to sister Anupa who has been at the school for several years and who steps up as the new Principle, we all wish her every success.

Record Number of Students for New School Year

The school year in north India starts in February and this school year sees a record number of students attending St Marys, 320 an increase of 11 from last year. In 2001 there was approximately 250.

It is fantastic achievement that a school that is not financially supported by government has achieved this, providing a chance of education for children in a part of India where unemployment is about 75% of the adult population. With education the students have a chance to find decent employment when they grow older.

Funding Crisis Halts New Classrooms

Work on construction of the new primary classrooms has had to halt due to a shortfall of funds.

The new classrooms are needed as the present ones are either very old or have been utilised as the new science and computer laboratory.

Half of the money needed has been generously donated from Japan but a further amount equal to 48,000 Euros, £38,000 or (US)$75,000 is needed to complete this much needed project.

Any donation would be very gratefully received or if you know of any charitable organisation or company sponsorship however large or small the students at St Mary’s would benefit greatly and would be very appreciative. If you can help please visit  Can you Help?

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