About us
The Association of Individual Development Education School (Association of I.D.E. School) is a centre for children, adolescents (age: 4 - 22 years) with various disorders such as Cerebral Palsy, Down's Syndrome, Autism, Attention Deficit Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, and/or mild to moderate learning difficulties. The school started in 1994 and was established under the Canon Christopher Ratnayake Trust. The late Rev.Canon Ratnayake is a well-known educationist and former Headmaster of Junior Trinity College Junior School, Kandy. Today, the school is registered as an N.G.O (CO/D/12/01/2003) and administered by a committee consisting of seven members.
The team
Association of Individual Development Education School (I.D.E. School)
95/43 Rajagiriya Road, Rajagiriya, Sri Lanka
A plan for your kids
Upon entering the school, each child is assessed and evaluated. She or he is then placed on an “Individual Education Plan” (I.E.P) to improve areas which are particularly important for her or him. This carefully individualised package of education, skills training and therapies offered means that each child can reach their fullest potential and develop the life and social skills appropriate for them. Each child’s curriculum and progress is assessed and amended three times a year. To respect individual need and to allow children with intellectual disabilities to progress, the teaching is given in a small group or through individual or pair teaching. There is a high level of teacher-child interaction and we have 1 teacher for every 2 children. Each child’s tailored curriculum consists of the use of specialised teaching methods, academic and non-academic classes and specific therapies.
Our teaching methods
1. Alpha to Omega teaching method is used for reading, writing and spelling.
2. Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA Methods) are a system used internationally and developed by Psychologist B.F. Skinner. Our teachers have attended workshops on how to use this method.
3. Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS). This is an approach that develops early communications skills using pictures. It is appropriate for students of all ages and with a wide range of learning difficulties. It is a unique approach and is based on a tried and tested model. Developed in the 1980’s, PECS has received worldwide recognition for focusing on the initiation and social approach elements of communication.
4. Social Communication and Emotional Regulation and Transactional Support (SCERTS Model). This is used by our visiting Speech and Language Therapists. Our teachers have attended workshops on how to use this method and therapists work with teachers to ensure the method is used throughout the week.
5. Montessori Pre-School Methods. All of our teachers are qualified in Montessori Pre-School methods. This method encourages learning through play and is particularly effective with children with intellectual disabilities.
Our Therapies
1. Clinical Psychology. When a new child enters the school and is undergoing their initial observation, a qualified clinical psychologist assists with the development of the individual plan for the child. The psychologist then regularly assesses the progress of each child and advises teachers and parents.
2. Occupational Therapy. A qualified occupational therapist visits the school once a week to work with children on a one-to-one basis. The therapist gives guidance to those children unable to coordinate their movements. This therapy assists children to develop their motor skills and also independent living skills. The therapist ensures teachers continue the individual exercises with the child throughout the week,
3. Speech and Language therapy. Two qualified Speech and Language therapists visit the school three times a week to work with children on a one-to-one basis. This therapy assists children to develop their language skills, using both verbal and non-verbal means.
4. Water therapy. Once a week, the children were taken to the local “Swiss Villa” swimming pool. As well as being a fun activity, swimming also aids relaxation and develops coordination skills. Unfortunately the pool has been now closed. We are seeking for a new place to continue this activity.
Academic
1. English (spelling, writing, reading)
2. Sinhala Language
3. Basic Numeracy
4. Basic Science
5. General knowledge
6. Environmental Studies
Non-academic
1. Self-help skills. Students are taught to develop independent daily living skills. For example, getting dressed, cooking classes, personal hygiene and eating independently. This is a vital part of our curriculum as it gives our students the chance to get more independent in their day to day life.
2. Community skills. Students are taught a variety of community skills including shopping in a local supermarket, greeting others, road safety and other social skills. These skills will help our students to integrate with their communities as they progress into adulthood. Such activities also serve to increase awareness amongst the general public and change their attitude towards children with intellectual disabilities.
3. Music and Free movement. Students attend weekly music and dancing classes. As well as being a fun activity, this helps to improve co-ordination, rhythm and encourages relaxation.
4. Yoga. Children attend twice weekly yoga classes. These classes assist the children to improve their flexibility, balance, coordination and breathing regulation.
5. Art and Crafts. Students develop their fine motor skills while also enhancing their cognitive abilities.
Bank Details
In Sri Lanka:
Union Bank
95/43 Rajagiriya Road, Rajagiriya, Sri Lanka
A/C no :002-01-01-00000218-4
A/C Name: "Association of I.D.E School"
In Swizerland:
Kto: Nr 90-149151-8
Post Finance
Elvira Merz IDE Spenden
Our annual report 2023
Credits: