MRC Introduction

The founder of the Christian Brothers, Blessed Edmund Rice, had a daughter named Mary Rice who was differently abled. Inspired by this personal experience and guided by their founder’s motto of presence, compassion, and liberation, the Mary Rice Centre was established in 2005.

St. Mary’s Orphanage and Day School is the parent body, and the ‘Mary Rice Centre for Special Education’ functions as a unit within it.

The Vision & Mission of this centre is:

Children with special needs live a socially integrated life learning to express their needs and carry out their tasks independently.

The centre caters to learners in the 5–17 years age group. It primarily serves children with diverse needs, including intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, hyperactivity, sensory challenges, Down syndrome, Williams syndrome, learning disabilities, Asperger’s syndrome, slow learning, and borderline intellectual functioning.

MRC is organized into groups based on age and cognitive levels, including Playgroup, KG, Grades I to VI, and Pre-Vocational students. Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and group activities are provided to support holistic development. The centre also focuses on preparing students for vocational training, aiming at future rehabilitation and supported employment.

Frequent small evaluations are conducted, along with comprehensive assessments held twice a year, all carried out in a student-friendly manner.

The Centre provides a range of facilities, including occupational therapy, sensory integration therapy, speech therapy, hydrotherapy (swimming), ABA therapy, football, and Special Olympics training, along with parent counselling and preparation for NIOS.

Some students from the Centre also attend a few classes in the mainstream section of St. Mary’s Orphanage and Day School, promoting inclusive education. With a team of dedicated professionals, the Centre offers a safe, nurturing, and child-friendly environment that supports holistic development.