Those of you who have been supporting NewDawn India for many years will remember that, almost 20 years ago, we embarked on a project to build a school for the Vidiyal children. Sadly, the land where the school was being built, was subject to a compulsory purchase order in 2007 and the project was put on hold, with Vidiyal eventually receiving compensation just a few years ago.
The Vidiyal children are encouraged to attend school and are helped with their studies at the drop-in centres. However, the education they receive in school is not always of the highest quality, and the children sometimes face discrimination in the classroom. The aim of educating children to give them a brighter future remains central to the work of Vidiyal, and the goal of creating a school where children from marginalised communities can access high quality education has remained in our sights.
In 2024 Jim’s son, Jess, joined the Vidiyal team, bringing experience in education management and administration. After detailed research to identify communities in greatest need of accessible education and assessing many potential plots, a site was purchased in September 2025.
NewDawn has retained all of the donations previously received towards a school, and the school building will be part-funded by the compensation received from the earlier project. However, this leaves a significant shortfall to be met through grants and fundraising by Vidiyal and NewDawn.
We have detailed plans and models of how the school will be. Initially there will be nursery and early years classes, expanding into a full primary school and beyond as time and funds allow.
| Description | Quantity | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Classroom | 7 | £10,000 Each |
| Auditorium | 1 | £20,000 |
| Staff Room | 1 | £4,900 |
| Principle Room | 1 | £2,850 |
| Director Room | 1 | £2,850 |
| Washroom | 2 | £655 |
| Toilet Girls | 1 | £5,100 |
| Toilet Boys | 1 | £4,351 |
| Toilet Staff Female | 1 | £1,100 |
| Toilet Staff Male | 1 | £525 |
| Portico | 1 | £20,000 |
| Kindergarten Playground | 1 | £60,100 |
| Kerb Wall, compound wall & paver block | 1 | £5,200 |
| Furnishing | 1 | £10,800 |
| Electrical | 1 | £21,100 |
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the aim of the project?
Our aim is to raise funds to build a safe, well equipped school that will provide quality education for children from marginalised and disadvantaged communities.
- Why is a new school needed?
Many children from marginalised and disadvantaged communities currently lack access to even adequate educational facilities. Existing government schools are often overcrowded and under resourced. This limits opportunities for learning and success.
- Who will benefit from the new school?
The school will primarily serve children from marginalised and disadvantaged communities, helping to remove barriers to education and create opportunities for a brighter future.
- Where will the new school be built?
The school will be constructed to the south of Madurai in an accessible location.
- How will funds be used?
All donations for the school will go towards construction costs, educational materials and essential facilities. Running costs are not part of this current fundraising initiative.
- How is the project being overseen and what is the role of trustees in the UK and India?
The project is governed by a board of trustees in the UK and India. They are responsible for ensuring that funds are used appropriately and that the projects meets its objectives. The UK trustees provide strategic oversight ensuring compliance with UK charity regulations and maintaining financial accountability. Trustees in India oversee local implementation, regulatory compliance and day to day management.
- How can I donate?
You can donate through the website or you can contact us and we can talk about other ways to donate.
- Can I make a recurring donation?
Yes, of course. Please contact us if you would like to set up a regular donation by standing order.
- How will I know that my donation is making a difference?
We will provide regular updates, including photographs, reports and stories from the community so you will be able to see clearly the difference your support is making.
- When will the school be completed?
The initial aim was to open in June 2027, however the timeline depends on funding progress.
Help us reach £346,134
33.5% of target achieved