Inclusion in Action: Building a Model School through a Shared Vision

By Meenu Ratnani, Program Director, School of Inclusion

Inclusion is not a program. It’s a belief, a practice, and a promise.  

Rooted in the values of dignity, equity, and collaboration, Piramal Foundation has consistently envisioned an education system that is inclusive, holistic, and transformative.

This vision is now being realized through a powerful partnership with Perkins School for the Blind India Foundation—a global leader in the education of children with multiple disabilities and deafblindness.  

Together, we are working to transform Seth Piramal School in Rajasthan into a model inclusive school—a space where every child, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to learn, thrive, and belong.  

A Shared Vision, Complementary Strengths  

What makes this collaboration unique is the deep alignment in purpose and ethos. Both Perkins India and Piramal Foundation believe that inclusion must go beyond mere access—it must enable meaningful participation, progress, and success for all children.  

At the heart of this school’s transformation is the standardized quality assessment and performance benchmarking framework used by Perkins globally to accelerate progress towards improving the quality of education for children with disabilities. This data-driven, evidence-based framework   helps schools assess their inclusive practices and design targeted, evidence-based improvement plans to unlock potential. This framework is helping teachers and school leaders build lasting systems that drive measurable, meaningful change for every child.  

Strengthening Systems, Empowering Educators, Engaging Families  

Though the journey has only just begun, the change is already visible in the school culture, classroom environments, and community engagement. The partnership is enabling a whole-school approach to inclusion, anchored in following critical areas:  

• Systemic Processes  

General and special educators now engage in regular discussions to review student progress, address classroom challenges, and identify areas of support. Monthly observation cycles ensure reflection and targeted coaching around inclusive teaching. These are now part of the school routine.  

• Professionally Equipped Team  

Educators are confident and well-equipped to develop and implement interventions that leverage each child’s strengths, understanding their behaviours in the natural environment.  

• Learning Environment  

Communication schedules for children in classrooms are well-organized, ensuring better interaction and engagement. Classrooms have become more engaging with the use of accessible Teaching Learning Materials (TLM), enhancing the learning experience. Students who previously struggled with sitting in class are gradually settling into the classroom environment. Teachers are using visual schedules, resources, and structured learning routines to meet the needs of diverse learners.  

• Collaboration  

 Collaboration among teachers, fellows and special educators is improving and there are forums where they are working together to make the learning space welcoming for every child.  

• Parent Engagement  

More parents are now actively participating in their child’s education. They’re witnessing progress and feeling a renewed sense of belief in their child’s potential.  

These shifts are gradually building a shared language of inclusion across the entire school community.  

Impact Seen in a Year

Looking Ahead  

As the School of Inclusion continues to evolve, it aspires to become a demonstration site—a place where educators, parents, and system leaders can witness inclusive education in action. This journey is not just about one school—it is about building a replicable model of possibility, grounded in compassion, competence, and community.  

The partnership between Perkins India and Piramal Foundation is a testament to what is possible when organizations share values, trust each other’s expertise, and commit to long-term impact.  Together, we are not just building an inclusive school—we are nurturing a more inclusive society.