My dear staff, students and parents,

On this auspicious occasion of the festival of lights, let us all transcend cultural, geographical and religious boundaries and reflect on the timeless values of light, love and unity. Let each day of Deepavali be significant for us all.

Let it be a time for introspection, renewal and inner transformation. When the demon Narakasura is destroyed, may good triumph over evil; may we be able to dispel all negative thoughts, darkness and ignorance and cultivate the light of knowledge, joy and happiness in our hearts.

When we pray to goddess Lakshmi, may we learn to respect and revere our mothers, sisters and daughters and free the world of violence and crimes against women so that they can pursue excellence, without fear.

May the celebration of ‘Bhai-dooj’ be a celebration for the love and brotherhood of Man. May we have a world free from endless wars as in Ukraine, Palestine and Israel. May there be peace and harmony in the world.

When we light the lamps and candles around our houses, may the inner light of wisdom, compassion and our spiritual being be awakened.

While bursting crackers which lighten up the night skies, let us be mindful of preserving the environment and have compassion for the elderly and the sick.

May the festival of Diwali illuminate your lives and the lives of your loved ones with eternal radiance, inner wisdom and joy.

Asatoma Sad-Gamaya
Tamaso Maa Jyotir-Gamaya
May the lights of Diwali
Lead each of us
from the untruth to the Truth.
from darkness to light.

Wishing you and your families a wonderful and safe Diwali

Regards
Fr. Yohan Alphonso S.J.
Director

​It gives me great pleasure to have been appointed Director of St. Mary’s School, ICSE, ISC and INTERNATIONAL. I hope that under my leadership and with the help and support of an efficient staff, enlightened parents and enthusiastic students, St. Mary’s School can reach greater heights of glory and achievement carrying with it a rich legacy of 160 years.

St. Mary’s school was founded in 1864 by members of the Jesuit Community. The school began as a Catholic School of Education and Military Orphanage. The foundation stone of the main building was laid by Lord Linlithgow, the former Viceroy of India. The school has come a long way since then, and today provides quality education to a large number of students from varied backgrounds. At the core system of its education policy, the school follows the Ignatian paradigm which emphasises the development of the whole person focussing on experience and reflection to mould students into kind and compassionate – ‘men for others’. As an educational institution, St. Mary’s School is constantly evolving and changing to keep up with time, bringing in the newest technologies and methodologies to enrich classroom teaching.

​The school expanded the building to open the ISC wing in 2020 which offers Commerce and Science streams to students. This provides an opportunity for the students to remain under the tutelage of an extremely qualified and experienced staff who prepare them for the highly competitive world outside.

​We are delighted to announce the introduction of the Co-educational International Wing of St. Mary’s School this year for Class 1 affiliated to the IGCSE Curriculum with immediate plans to extend admissions to Junior Kg and Class 2. The IGCSE Curriculum is committed to the core values of excellence and integrity provided by a highly trained and experienced staff. We seek to provide an inquiry-based, holistic education which encourages critical thinking in students and develop problem -solving skills in them using a creative approach to learning. This would prepare students to undertake higher education in all International Boards such as the IB Diploma and be at par with education systems all across the world. We have already received an overwhelming response from parents of this school and we hope to open our doors to students from other schools.

​This year, we also celebrated the tenth edition of Immaculata, the school festival hosted by St. Mary’s School, ICSE. Immaculata was conceived 10 years ago by some students of St. Mary’s to celebrate its 150th year. The idea was to have a school fest with a difference. It was to be planned and executed by the students and was to provide a platform for schools to showcase their talents. Marians would be the organisers – conceiving, planning, and creating events for participants of other schools. During the preparation weeks leading to Immaculata, St. Mary’s School becomes a cauldron of creative energy, drive and enthusiasm and the all-pervading atmosphere is one of infectious happiness and joy. And true to the Jesuit concept of ‘Magis’, Marians strive to make the festival bigger and better each year.

​At St. Mary’s School, we believe in drawing out the fullest potential of every student. Students are encouraged to hone their talents, be it in Sports, Music, Public Speaking, Art or Academics. Marians are encouraged to participate in Inter-School and Inter-House events and also participate in events at National and International levels. Our Exchange Programmes with schools in France and Nepal help the students to be connected to world cultures and events. St. Mary’s is proud to be the Alma Mater to a glorious Alumni, Zubin Mehta, Justice Vahanvati, Boman Irani, Suraj Barjatya, Azim Premji, Adil Sumariwala who have excelled in various fields.

As Director of this prestigious institution, it will be my mission to carry on the rich legacy of the school. I would like to emphasise the importance of imparting value-based education so that our Marians become torch bearers spreading the message of love, tolerance and brotherhood to the world, making it a better place.

​”The highest education is that which does not merely give us information but that makes our life in harmony with all existence” – Rabindranath Tagore

​I look forward to your constant support and co-operation.

​
Fr. Yohan Alphonso S.J.,
Director

As we approach the end of another academic year, I am filled with a sense of pride and gratitude for all that we have achieved together. This year has been unlike any other, presenting us with numerous challenges, but also providing opportunities for growth, resilience, and collaboration.

To our students, I want to commend each and every one of you for your dedication to your studies, your commitment to personal growth, and your resilience in the face of adversity. Whether you’ve excelled academically, demonstrated leadership in extracurricular activities, or simply shown kindness and compassion to your peers, your contributions have made our school community stronger and more vibrant.

As we approach the culmination of your academic journey with the ICSE Board Final Examinations, I want to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt wishes and encouragement to each and every one of you.

This phase of your education represents a significant milestone, one that will open doors to countless opportunities and adventures in the future. As you prepare to demonstrate your knowledge and skills, I urge you to approach the examination period with confidence, determination, and integrity.

Remember, your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have brought you to this point. Trust in your abilities, stay focused, and believe in yourself. While the examinations may seem daunting, they are also a chance for you to showcase your capabilities and shine brightly.

Throughout this journey, know that your teachers, parents, and the entire school community stand firmly behind you, offering support, guidance, and encouragement. Lean on them whenever you need assistance or reassurance, and never hesitate to seek clarification on any doubts or concerns you may have.

In the midst of your preparations, prioritize self-care and well-being. Take regular breaks, maintain a balanced lifestyle, and ensure adequate rest. A healthy mind and body are essential for optimal performance during the examination period.

Lastly, remember that success is not solely defined by your examination results. While they are undoubtedly important, they do not determine your worth or potential. Embrace the learning process, celebrate your achievements, and remain resilient in the face of challenges.

I have full faith in your abilities to excel in the ICSE Board Final Examinations. Approach each paper with determination, focus, and a positive attitude, and I am confident that you will achieve great success.

Wishing you all the very best for your examinations and for all your future endeavours.

I also want to extend my deepest gratitude to our parents and guardians for your unwavering support throughout this year. Your partnership and involvement in your child’s education are invaluable, and I am grateful for the trust you have placed in us to nurture and educate your children.

To our exceptional faculty and staff, thank you for your tireless dedication, creativity, and adaptability. You have gone above and beyond to ensure that our students receive the best possible education, both in person and through remote learning. Your passion for teaching and your commitment to our school’s mission have made a profound impact on the lives of our students.

As we prepare to close this chapter and embark on new adventures, let us take a moment to reflect on all that we have accomplished together. While there have been many challenges along the way, we have emerged stronger, more resilient, and more united as a school community.

As we look ahead to the future, let us carry forward the lessons we have learned and continue to strive for excellence in all that we do. Whether you are moving on to new academic pursuits, exploring career opportunities, or enjoying a well-deserved break, I encourage you to embrace the journey ahead with optimism, curiosity, and a spirit of adventure.

Thank you once again for your hard work, dedication, and support throughout this academic year. I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together, and I look forward to seeing all that we will accomplish in the years to come.

Wishing you a restful and rejuvenating summer break, filled with joy, laughter, and cherished memories.

Warm regards,

Fr. Dr. Francis Swamy, (S.J.)

Director