THE SAADHYA EXPERIENCE
Not everyone learns from a blackboard. So, what happens when we change what a classroom looks and feels like?
For many individuals with neurodivergence in India, it’s the lack of spaces designed with their needs in mind that keeps them out of the learning curve. At Saadhya, we’re providing access to physical spaces where students feel safe, seen and have access to learning paths that honour how they grow best.
Access to Hard Infrastructure:
In India, nearly most individuals with neurodivergence do not attend school, primarily because most schools are not equipped to meet their sensory, emotional, or physical needs. At Saadhya, we address this gap by bringing inclusive schooling into the heart of local communities. Our educational centre is designed to be accessible, safe, and responsive featuring features like sensory-friendly classrooms, assistive infrastructure, and calming spaces.
Located within the heart of Bengaluru, these centres remove the burden of long commutes and inaccessible environments. For us, infrastructure is about creating spaces where every learner feels welcomed, supported, and ready to thrive.
Access to Quality Learning:
At Saadhya, we recognize that learning is not one-size-fits-all. Each student begins their journey by exploring different paths: structured academics, hands-on vocational training, and creative expression. This helps us identify where each student feels most confident and capable.
If formal education is a good fit, we support it through simplified, inclusive teaching methods, guided by trained educators and a curriculum designed for learners with neurodivergence. For others, we offer skill-based training in crafts like soap-making, stitching, candle creation, and more building confidence and independence through meaningful work.
Whether through books or hands-on skills, every learning path at Saadhya is respected, nurtured, and tailored to help each student grow with dignity and direction.
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
Summer Camp
21 April 2025 - 3 May 2025
Visit to Nehru Planetarium
9 May 2025
World Environment Day Celebration
5 June 2025
International Yoga Day Celebration
20-21 June 2025
VOICES FROM THE CLASSROOM
Can I come to school on Sunday too? — Jayanth’s Story
(as told by Jayanth, age 20)
Hi! I’m Jayanth. I’m 20 years old and I go to Saadhya School. I like it a lot… So much that I even ask if I can come on Sundays! At school, my favourite things are bead work, painting, and diya decoration. I also like to sing with Kala ma’am. She sings beautifully. I still remember the lyrics, even from years ago.
When I’m home, I help wash vessels. But my happiest moments? When there’s oota — food! Oh, and volleyball! I love hitting the ball across the net and cheering with my friends.
Saadhya is my favourite place.
Cookies from Nandhini are my favourite! — Rakshitha’s Story
(as told by Jayanth, age 20)
Hello! I’m Rakshitha. I’m 24 years old, and I love coming to school. My favourite subject is history. Studying makes me happy. I have lots of friends, and we laugh and talk all the time.
After school, I like to watch Kannada serials on TV with my grandma. They’re full of drama, and I never miss an episode! And I go to the Nandhini outlet near my house every day to buy their cookies.
I also go to the gym daily — two hours! I feel strong and proud after every session.
But you know what I love the most? Dancing. Abhilasha ma’am always cheers me on. Being around her gives me the most happiness.
School, friends, dancing — I love it.
Every child learns differently, and we honour that.
(As told by Ms. Kalavathi & Ms. Abhilasha, Teachers at Saadhya School)
At Saadhya, no two students are alike — and that’s exactly how we teach. We follow the NIOS syllabus, yes, but what we really do is connect. Alongside academics, we teach vocational skills like candle making, soap making, beadwork, painting, and basic tailoring. Everything is hands-on, everything is heart-first.
We use mind maps for every chapter, videos, roleplay, and whatever methods suit each student’s learning style. There are usually three of us teaching about ten students. While we focus on one, we give the others meaningful activities to stay engaged. It’s a balance — sometimes quiet, sometimes chaotic — but always purposeful.
When a student has a difficult day, we give them space. We try to understand what triggered the behaviour, use a behaviour tracker, and respond with care. Some days, they’re just trying to escape, like anyone would. We know the difference.
I still remember one student who used to spit or hit with a chappal when he got overwhelmed. He couldn’t say “sorry,” but he would walk up afterward and say, “Come, hug me.” And that was his apology.
We’ve trained scribes for exams. We’ve built individual learning paths. And we’ve watched our students grow into confident, capable adults. One of them now works at a prestigious university as a photographer and videographer. He earns more than us, and we couldn’t be prouder! Another is pursuing his undergraduate studies at a leading university in Bangalore and thriving.
From our students, we’ve learned patience. We’ve learned how to forgive quickly and move on because they do it every day.
If there’s one thing we want people to know, it’s this: our students are just as capable as anyone else. Whether it’s painting, dancing, or earning a degree, all they need is someone to believe in them.
SAY IT RIGHT: WORDS THAT INCLUDE
Say this: Neurodiversity
Not this: Mental disorder or Deficit
Say this: Autistic person or Person on the autism spectrum
Not this: Suffering from autism or Afflicted with autism
Say this: Non-speaking or Uses AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication)
Not this: Mute or Non-verbal
Say this: Developmental differences
Not this: Abnormal or Delayed
Say this: Inclusive classroom / General education setting
Not this: Normal class / Mainstreamed
Say this: Providing individualized support
Not this: Fixing the child
Say this: Accessible
Not this: Disabled-friendly
Say this: Special facility
Not this: Sensory-friendly space
A SAMBHAV FOUNDATION - ORACLE PARTNERSHIP
For individuals with disabilities to: Learn Differently. Live Fully.
We’re excited to welcome Oracle as a partner in our ongoing efforts to empower disabled individuals at Saadhya School, Bengaluru.
With support from Oracle’s CSR initiative, we’re scaling a holistic education and inclusion program that provides:
- Tailored learning through Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)
- Regular therapy and counselling for emotional and behavioural well-being
- Vocational and life skills training
- Active parental engagement and community inclusion
- Volunteer-led learning and mentorship opportunities
Together, we’re building a nurturing ecosystem where disabled individuals can grow with confidence, dignity, and opportunity.
