Greetings from The School of Raya! Where education transcends the ordinary, inviting students to embrace a transformative journey, like no other. Imagine a place where lessons become games, where the playground transforms into a science class, and subjects are not taught but lived. We invite children not to study but to embark on a dynamic journey of expansion. To a space where their curiosity knows no bounds, and they can experience the real meaning of balanced growth. So they can freely emerge as conscious citizens primed for a life of perpetual discovery, by empowering their unique journey. This is education, not as it has always been, but as it should be – a vibrant, ever-flowing experience. This is The School of Raya.
Raya’s PYP program is an adventure. An expedition into education, curated for children aged 3-12. An exploration that seamlessly integrates fun, interactivity, and ease, making inculcation into academics a natural, engaging, and delightful process. With a limited class size and a student-teacher ratio of 1:12, the school’s PYP Program is a personalised journey where each child's potential is nurtured. Beyond academics, our program cultivates inner resilience and a passion for perpetual learning, within a free and supportive environment. Raya’s MYP program is a flexible curriculum framework crafted for students aged 11 to 16 studying across grades 6 to 10. Tailored for young adults, it forges practical connections between studies and the real world. With class strength not exceeding 24 students. The School, embraces the Primary School Program as the foundation of our educational philosophy, centered on inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and character development.
Here we allow imagination take center stage, and we nurture the next generation of artists. Visual Arts. From canvases to digital realms, we nurture creativity in every stroke. Our students don't just learn to see; they discover how to make others see through their unique artistic lens. Performing Arts Whether it's a dance, a play, or a musical performance, with us your child isn't just learning steps or lines; they're mastering the art of captivating an audience. Literature Our Literature program delves into the written word, fostering a love for storytelling, critical thinking, and the power of language.
At Raya, sports aren't just about games; they're the heartbeat of character- building. Imagine your child scaling new heights on our rock climbing wall, learning teamwork on the football pitch, or finding inner strength in gymnastics. Our sports philosophy is simple: beyond victories, it's about nurturing resilient, disciplined, and compassionate individuals. Whether it's scoring goals or conquering fears, every moment at Raya is a chapter in your child's journey of self-discovery. Where every sprint, kick, and leap isn't just a play — it's a life lesson etched with the joy of participation and the spirit of sportsmanship. Raya's unparalleled sports infrastructure, is where dreams take centre stage. From the thunderous cheers of indoor competitions to the adrenaline-fuelled rush of outdoor adventures, every experience resonates with the spirit of athleticism and that irreplaceable feeling of pure passion and freedom.
A school that teaches and learns: Raya embodies the essence of education rather than just offering it, going beyond facilities, infrastructure, and prescribed curricula. We believe in unshackled, continuous learning, fostering a full-circle learning experience, that allows children to excel in every facet of their personality, echoing the circularity of life itself.
A life-long invitation to free thinking & exploration: Raya's approach moulds minds that are free to explore, question, and think for themselves, creating a liberating experience that readies students for a world that values independent thought. Our teachers embody this ethos, practising what they preach.
A Playground of Discovery: Education to us, is not just about simply understanding but actively engaging with, and applying knowledge in the real world. We are a space that seamlessly blends nature and nurture - transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary, inviting self-discovery and exploration at every turn. Where subjects are not confined to academic settings, they come alive.
Wheelchair accessible: Inclusivity is not just a goal bit a reality at Raya. The academic block, seamlessly connected by ramps, stands as a symbol of our dedication to creating a space where every student, regardless of ability, can traverse freely. At Raya, diversity isn't just celebrated; it's woven into the very fabric our existence.
A Celebration of individuality: Recognising the distinctive path of every student, Raya cultivates an atmosphere that not only encourages but revels in personal growth. It's an environment where individuality not only survives but flourishes. At Raya, children discover the resilience to overcome challenges, appreciate the journey, and embrace the entirety of their unique experiences.
Our 450 seat auditorium & amphitheatre is the heart of of Raya's artistic expression. These venues echo with the heartbeat of creativity and the collective pulse of shared expereinces.
A Campus that encourages adventure: Raya seamlessly integrates academics, sports, and the arts, fostering an environment that embraces adventure and holistic development. Our sporting options abound with over 20 activities, and our cultural offerings include two music rooms, a drama studio, a media lab, a visual arts studio, and a theatre complemented by a grand auditorium for captivating performances. Sprawling across 8.5 acres, our campus is not just a space; it's an adventure waiting to unfold.
Dr. Suneel Thummala, the visionary Founder of Raya, holds a professional degree in Medicine, a Master’s degree from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), and an MBA from the Indian School of Business (ISB). Having spent half his life in both the United States and India, Dr. Suneel brings a unique perspective shaped by the diversity of education systems in both countries. Dr. Suneel champions a belief system rooted in innovative school design. Rejecting the conventional square classrooms, he advocates for circular classrooms, seeing them as liberating spaces that defy the confines of traditional education. Driven by a spirit of adventure cultivated through rock climbing and outdoorsmanship, he considers sports not merely an extracurricular activity but a crucial facet of lifelong learning.
Sailaja Vittaldev, our Head of School, a lifelong learner with 14 years in IB Programmes. From Ken Bartlett's workshop to global IB conferences, she's evolved into an adept educator. Enriching her skills with courses from Harvard and IIMA, Sailaja, an IB Evaluation Leader, had served as the Chair-Southern & Eastern of the Association for Heads of IB World Schools in India and South Asia. Recognized with the TAFIT – 2015 Award, and featured among the 10 Most Inspiring Indian Women in School Leadership, Sailaja aims to instill conviction, responsibility, and a commitment to the world in students. Under her leadership, students discover a world of meaningful experiences and boundless possibilities.
