The Edmund Rice National Open School Project

The Edmund Rice Learning Centre arose out of the need to provide an alternate form of learning for many pupils who found it difficult to deal with the SSC syllabus which allowed for little choice of subjects. This led to a number of students dropping out of school. The NIOS Board was adopted for these children who were now not compelled to study ‘difficult subjects’ like Maths and Science. The first batch, comprising just 15 students, began in the year 2002.

Classes were held from 4.00 pm to 6.00pm under the strict supervision of Mr. Joe Pereira. Over the years the numbers grew to nearly 80 with three graded sections of co-ed students. Besides regular classes, several activites such as sports, games, outings etc. provided them with opportunities for much needed recreation. Many of those who were successful in their final exam began to regain confidence, believe in themselves and go on to complete their higher education. Besides the Brothers and Sir Joe Pereira, Ms Clementine Pereira, Mrs Joyce Pinto and the late Shilpa Marathe contributed greatly to the success of this outreach initiative and its salutary effect on the children.
It was a sad day for the school when the ERLC programme was abruptly discontinued in 2011.

Br Martin Fernandes

Bakery,candle making and paper cutting artwork was also a part of the curriculum for the NIOS students. They enjoyed what they did in school so much that they used to ask Br Martin to have school on saturdays and sundays as well.

Mrs Joyce Pinto