Shishu Bhavan – Our School.

Our school is located just off the Arpora/Anjuna road. Using ‘The Fresh Lobster’ restaurant as a landmark, turn right. The address is: 88 Mainath Batti, Anjuna Road, Arpora, Bardez, GOA. It is a single storey building comprising of an administration office, two classrooms, kitchen and washroom. There is a beautiful veranda where we can observe the children at play in our substantial play area, comprising of swings, climbing frame and slides. The veranda is also used after each class break and play time by the children, who, under supervision wash their hands, and brush their teeth before returning to class. The school numbers have been capped at 50, as we feel that it provides for a safer environment, and more intimate learning experience for the children. We are currently renting the building from a very accommodating and understanding landlord.

Our Children.
Children enrol with us on reaching 3 years and 6 months. They will continue their education in Shishu Bhavan until their 6th birthday, when at this stage they will go on to mainstream schools in the local area. All our children come from three local slums, namely: Agarwaddo, Arpora and Nagoa. Their parents, most of whom have been born and reared here in GOA, are often classified as migrant workers, which is not a very appropriate description. Are they not all Indian citizens ?

Our community.
Can be rightfully acknowledged as a very proud, tight knit, warm, friendly and industrious community. Indeed an old Irish phrase could perhaps best describe the community as ‘Baile Anam Cara’, ‘The Village of Soulmates’. Not only are they proud and loving parents to their children, but there is an great understanding of what a good neighbour is, and that must surely be the envy of most European or indeed worldwide neighbourhoods. The parents of our special children take particular pride in how their children present at school, they are always on time, respectful and place a great emphasis on health and hygiene i.e. the children are always spotlessly clean, tidy school uniform, hair brushed, teeth cleaned etc.