Preparatory School at Drop-in Centre 'SATHEEKSHYA'

WAG CHELSEA runs a small Preparatory school at the drop in centre called SATHEEKSHYA.

The aim of this school is to give every child, up to the age of sixteen, who for whatever reason, has not been able to access a school or has had to drop out of school, a chance to get an education. Therefore, one might find a ten year old, in class 1, rubbing shoulders with a five year old. But a normal, average, ten year old, will in the course of a year or eighteen months find his/her niche and be with his/her peers. 

The school follows the government of India’s syllabus of the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE).The school holds preparatory classes from nursery to class IV.

The school prepares the student for mainstream schools.

Background:

The school was started five years ago. It offered FREE education. Because it was “free” attendance was often “at will”! It was decided to charge a fee of Rs5/00 per month {that is approximately 1.5 US $ per annum} per child.

Timings:

9.30 a.m to 2 p.m.

The school has a five day week.

Other than Education The Child Receives: 

• Free stationery and material for handicrafts and other hobbies.
• Life Skills Education (LSE).
• Computer education.
• One banana per child at the eleven o’clock breaks.
• Excursions.

Achievements:                                                                                                                                           

On an average, up to twenty students per year join mainstream schools.

WAG CHELSEA supports the education of many students in mainstream schools    

Challenges:

1. Making a ten year old feel comfortable with his five year old class mate.    
2. Shortage of space per force restricts the number of admissions.
3. Shortage of space does not permit physical activity like football etc.
4. Attendance is irregular because of ill health, festivities and migration.