Founded way back in 1958, under the direction of the Bishop of Jamshedpur, who is also the president of Jamshedpur Diocesan Corporation, the doors of this school are open to all.

Though they are just a little bit more open for those who need it the most. Over the years as it grew, the school has always kept its primary objectives clear ? catering to the needs of children in the neighbouring community, especially of those who are marginalised.

To help the children develop all-round personalities is what this government-aided, minority-recognised school hopes to achieve.

Vision and mission

The school knows it?s a tough world out there and the mission is to prepare the children to go out into it and achieve their dreams.

It tries to train pupils in a way that by the time they are ready to move on to higher studies, they are transformed by their years in school and ready in every way to move on in life. And to do this, it aims at imparting quality rather than just quantity.

To support the school in its endeavour, it has a team of committed teachers and administrators, who take full advantage of the environment and infrastructural support to tap the full potential of each student.

Book-learning is fine, but what the school gives priority to is to teach the children social values and removing social biases, if any. As it works its way up the ranks in the list of top vernacular schools in the town, it?s still not thinking in terms of expanding to the Plus Two level.

Infrastructure

It?s not an empty boast when they say their aim is to provide the best and the latest. Housed in two buildings with about 40 classrooms, the school boasts of a well-stocked library, three laboratories, and a welfare centre, which is also used as an auditorium for school functions.

Keeping up with the world of technology, the school also has a computer laboratory.

Firm believers in ?all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy?, the school also has a basketball and a volleyball court.

St Joseph?s has come a long way indeed since the days it began with only six students studying in a corridor. While it works its way towards acquiring a sports ground of its own, it uses the Agrico and Cable grounds for its annual sports day, proving where there is a will, there?s a way to do things!

School timings

Depends on whether it?s summer or winter, with a decision being taken at the beginning of the academic year.

Summer it?s seven in the mornings, with classes dispersing by 12.30 pm, while for the rest of the year, the start and finish are a little delayed for convenience.

With the children coming in at eight and dispersing by 1.30 in the afternoon.

Admission blues

It?s made as simple as possible, so it?s hardly fair to call it blues!

With the students being taken in at the kindergarten level, the entrance test is a mere formality, with more emphasis laid on knowing them, their aptitudes and their parents.

?The objective behind interviewing the parents is to know more about their family backgrounds. Often, a first hand information becomes essential,? says the school principal. Admission to the higher classes depends strictly on vacancies available.

Hobby classes

It believes in going even beyond studies and sports. To groom, tap and encourage special skills, the school also has other co-curricular activities planned out, whether it be music, painting, public speaking or gardening, all of which are yielding rich results, the principal says.

?We have ensured that every student takes up some extra activity, apart from regular academics. Our aim is to expose them to a host of opportunities to grow up in a healthy environment,? says the principal.

Hurrah for results

When results are declared, it?s time for hip hip hurrays! Credited with obtaining hundred per cent results in the state board examinations since the past three years, the principal gives due credit to the teachers in giving full support and time. This year, too, the results are nothing short of exciting for the authorities.

Out of the 131 students who appeared for their matriculation this year, 109 passed in first class, followed by only 21 who passed in second class, with just one student being placed in the third division.

Principal speaks

?Being attached with this school since its early days, I have witnessed many changes. Vernacular schools are losing out on popularity, but the parents of our school children relate well to the quality education given here,? says the principal.

fact file

Name: St Joseph?s High School, Golmuri, Jamshedpur

Number: 0657-2427153

What is it: A co-educational Hindi-medium school affiliated to Jharkhand Academic Council

Principal: Sister Marie Therese

Middle-School Headmistress: Sister Anice Mary

Number of Students: 1,900 (approx)

Number of Teachers: 40 (including part timers)

School: A minority-recognised school, it receives an annual fund from the government for its functioning