St. Edmund’s School – Catholic school in Shillong, Meghalaya

St. Edmund’s School, Shillong: A Legacy of Excellence

Introduction to St. Edmund’s School

St. Edmund’s School in Laitumkhrah, Shillong, is an esteemed all-boys institution founded in 1916 by the Congregation of Christian Brothers. The school, affiliated with the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (ICSE), New Delhi, holds a reputation for academic excellence and character development. Surrounded by Shillong’s lush landscapes and serene atmosphere, the institution is a beacon of quality education in Meghalaya.

Historical Background and Foundation

• Inception and Vision
  St. Edmund’s School was the vision of Mgr. Edmund Becker, the Prefect Apostolic of Assam. He envisioned a premier boarding school for boys in Shillong as early as 1894. The project gained momentum when Sir Archdale Earle, a noted educationist and Chief Commissioner of Assam, supported the initiative in 1912.
• Land Acquisition and Early Development
  In 1914, the government handed over a 24-acre property in Laitumkhrah to the Christian Brothers. Br. Stanislaus O’Brien led the development, turning the pine forest into the school’s foundation.
• Opening and Growth
  The school officially opened on October 6, 1916, with 31 boarders and 11 day scholars. Under the leadership of Br. Andrew Luke Aherne, the institution grew, integrating values of faith, discipline, and academic excellence.

Key Milestones

• St. Edmund’s expanded to include a junior college in 1924, offering courses affiliated with the University of Calcutta.
• The school celebrated its Platinum Jubilee in 1999 and its Centenary Jubilee from May 2015 to May 2016.

Curriculum and Academic Offerings

St. Edmund’s School provides a well-rounded education with a blend of traditional and modern subjects.

1. Junior School Curriculum
   • Core Subjects: English, Mathematics, EVS, Science, Art & Craft, and a second language.
   • Extracurriculars: Music, Aerobics, and Physical Education.
2. Middle and Senior School Curriculum
   • Core Subjects: English, Mathematics, History, Geography, Physics, Chemistry, and Computers.
   • Special Programs: Mass Media, Commercial Studies, Fashion Designing, Cookery, Hospitality Management, Economics, and Spanish.
3. Additional Offerings
   • Regular Classes: Physical Training, Art, Singing, Library, Aerobics, and a third language.
4. Focus on All-Round Development
   • Students gain exposure to practical learning through environmental studies, mass media, and hospitality.
   • Physical education and extracurricular activities contribute to character building.

Parents Association

• The school fosters strong collaboration with parents through its Parents Association.
• Two parent representatives serve on the Board of Management, ensuring mutual contribution to the school’s growth.

Fee Structure and Payment Details (2023)

St. Edmund’s School maintains a transparent and inclusive fee structure.

• Admission Fee: ₹13,200 for KG to Class 8.
• Monthly Fee: ₹5,050 for KG to Class 8; ₹5,060 for Classes 9 and 10.
• Computer Fee (Classes 9-10): ₹1,260.
• Payment Notes:
  • Admission fees for KG are payable via the SBI Collect portal.
  • Monthly fees cover tuition, activities, smart classes, development, and maintenance.
  • Payments can be made via debit/credit cards, net banking, or UPI.

Facilities at St. Edmund’s School

The school provides modern amenities and a conducive environment for holistic learning.

1. Infrastructure
   • Spacious classrooms equipped with smart class technology.
   • Science and computer labs with advanced equipment.
   • A vast library featuring diverse academic and recreational resources.
2. Sports and Extracurricular Activities
   • Playground and facilities for games like football, cricket, and basketball.
   • Aerobics, music, and art programs enhance creativity and physical fitness.
3. Boarding Facilities
   • Comfortable and secure dormitories for boarders.
   • Nutritious meals served in the dining hall.
   • Dedicated support staff ensuring student well-being.
4. Cultural and Leadership Development
   • Events such as debates, quizzes, and cultural programs.
   • Leadership roles fostered through student councils and club activities.
5. Environmental Consciousness
   • Emphasis on eco-friendly practices and environmental studies.
   • Tree plantation drives and awareness campaigns.

Legacy and Impact

St. Edmund’s School has nurtured generations of students who excel in academics and personal growth.

• Alumni include prominent leaders, professionals, and social contributors.
• The school remains committed to its mission of fostering faith, discipline, and service.

Contact Information

• Address: Laitumkhrah, Shillong, Meghalaya 793003.
• Hours: 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays).
• Phone: 094854 30548 / 0364-2222307 / 2500412.
• Website: stedmundshillong.in
• Email: saintedmunds@gmail.com

Conclusion

St. Edmund’s School, Shillong, exemplifies excellence in education with a legacy spanning over a century. Its holistic approach, integrating academics with values, extracurriculars, and parental involvement, continues to shape the future of its students. With state-of-the-art facilities and an enduring vision, St. Edmund’s stands as a testament to quality education in Meghalaya.