SAVE has been assisting the Tagore Foundation school for a number of years now and we hope to fund a training programme at the school with funding from the Bairdwatson Foundation.

The school was set up by Ms. Srabani Banerjee (SG) who was determined to empower her daughter, Adrija, who has Down’s Syndrome, and help her become self-dependent. She also recognized the importance of sharing her challenges and experiences as a mother of a special needs child with other parents in similar situations. It was her heartfelt desire to work towards improving the lives of children with special needs. She aimed to create a platform for these children, providing them opportunities for mainstream education and vocational training. Before embarking on this journey, she ensured that she received formal training in methods for addressing learning disabilities and educating children with mental challenges.

The school now has classes from standard play group to standard VIII. and in May last year had 168 children. Out of which 72 are Differently-abled Children (Mentally Challenged Children, Down’s Syndrome, Autism, Hearing Impaired, Cerebral Palsied, Slow Learner, etc.) and 96 are normal children including under privileged children. Differently-abled children are treated with equality along with the normal children and they are taught in the same class. The Tagore Foundation School follows the Montessori Method of education.

SAVE has been supporting the school’s Mid-day Meal programme for the students.

Trustee’s visit to the Tagore Foundation School – November 2025

Dr Tina Dutta Gupta visits Tagore Foundation School

I visited the Tagore Foundation School, the special needs school in Kolkata, India on the 27th November 2025, supported by the SAVE-UK, with the purpose of seeing myself the impact of our funding and the work being carried out for the vulnerable children.

The visit was deeply moving and inspiring. Despite limited resources, the school provides a place of safety, care, learning and overall development for the children with complex needs, who might otherwise be excluded from education and career development. The classrooms were modest but filled with warmth, structure, and encouragement.

What stood out most was the extraordinary dedication of the staff. Their patience, kindness, and commitment to each child were evident in every interaction. It was clear that every child is known, valued, and supported as an individual.

I was very much impressed by how carefully and responsibly our funds are being used for these children’s best interests. The impact of our support is tangible and life-changing, not only for the children but also for their families and the wider community.

The school is doing remarkable work under the challenging circumstances and the able guidance of Mrs Sraboni Sengupta. It is a privilege for us to be able to support such a dedicated and compassionate team. I, wholeheartedly, recommend the continuation of our funding and, if possible, increased support to help them reach even more children in need.

Dr Tina Dutta Gupta.