Being physically challenged is not a limitation but an opportunity to showcase unique strengths, as every child has the potential to achieve incredible things with the right support. In Freetown, finding schools that prioritize accessibility and inclusivity has been challenging due to the region's topography. However, Choithram International School (CIS) brings new hope and possibilities. CIS empowers children in Freetown to realize their potential and compete on a global stage. By creating an accessible, inclusive environment and offering wheelchair-friendly facilities, CIS is setting a standard for equitable and sustainable education, making it a beacon of quality learning and inclusivity in the city.

Why accessibility in schools matters

According to a recent UNESCO report, over 90% of children with disabilities in low-income countries do not attend school. Physical barriers, lack of resources, and societal stigma contribute to this alarming statistic. Schools like CIS are reversing this trend by ensuring access and inclusivity for all students, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities.

With its facilities and holistic approach, Choithram International School, or CIS embodies this principle, providing a safe and supportive environment for every student.

CIS, or Choithram International School: A Visionary School for Accessible Education in Freetown

As a primary school in Freetown, CIS serves as a model for accessible education. The school caters to diverse needs, ensuring equal opportunities for physically challenged students while maintaining global standards in teaching. Here's what makes CIS unique and take a glance over CIS facilities for all students:

1. Wheelchair-friendly infrastructure

CIS’s campus is designed to be completely wheelchair-friendly, ensuring smooth mobility across all areas:

• Ramps: All buildings are equipped with wide, well-constructed ramps for ease of movement.
• Accessible Toilets: Restrooms are designed to meet the specific needs of physically challenged students, offering sufficient space and safety features.
• Barrier-Free Classrooms: Every classroom and facility is accessible to students with physical disabilities.

These infrastructure measures reflect the school’s dedication to removing physical barriers to education.

2. Supporting Cognitive Diversity: Counseling Services

CIS provides professional counseling for students dealing with mild ADHD and other challenges, ensuring they receive the emotional and academic support they need. This approach fosters optimism and helps students build confidence.

3. Diverse Curriculum with Global Standards

CIS emphasizes a global approach to education. The school offers:

• Core subjects: English, Math, Global Perspective, and Science are taught at an international level to prepare students for global opportunities.
• Language Programs:
• French as a second language for children aged 3–11 years.
• Options to learn Arabic, and Hindi as third languages promote cultural and linguistic diversity.
• Music Classes: Music is integral to CIS’s curriculum. Every student is encouraged to explore their talents, with access to musical instruments like recorders.

These programs ensure students receive a holistic education that goes beyond academics.

4. Phase-Wise Structure: Building for the Future

CIS is currently a Primary school, with plans to expand in phases:

• Phase 1: Pre-Primary & Primary (Nursery to Grade 6): Focuses on foundational learning and nurturing curiosity in young minds.
• Phase 2: Lower Secondary School (Grades 7–9): Set to open in September 2025, offering advanced learning opportunities.

The phased growth reflects CIS’s commitment to creating a robust, future-ready education system.

5. Diversity in Admissions and Faculty

CIS is proud of its diverse student body and teaching faculty.

• Inclusive Admissions: Students from any country can join, fostering a multicultural environment.
• Global Faculty: The teaching staff brings experience and methodologies, enriching the learning experience.

This diversity prepares students for a globalized world, promoting cultural understanding and acceptance.

6. Beyond Academics: Facilities for All-Round Development

CIS ensures a balanced development for its students through exceptional facilities:

• Computer Lab and Library: Well-equipped with modern resources to support digital and traditional learning.
• Playgrounds: Two spacious playgrounds encourage physical activity and social interaction.
• Sustainable Practices: As a green school, CIS bans plastic use and runs entirely on solar energy, teaching students the importance of sustainability.

A Commitment to Sustainability and Inclusivity

CIS’s green initiatives complement its inclusive ethos. By eliminating plastic and adopting solar energy, the school demonstrates how accessibility and sustainability can go hand in hand.

Impact of Inclusive Education at CIS

Inclusive education at CIS has led to remarkable outcomes:

• Enhanced peer interaction: Students with and without disabilities learn to collaborate, fostering empathy and teamwork.
• Improved Academic Performance: Physically challenged students thrive in an environment that prioritizes their needs.
• A Culture of Acceptance: The school cultivates an atmosphere where differences are celebrated.

Conclusion: CIS, a Pioneer in Accessible Education in Freetown

Choithram International School exemplifies what an accessible school in Freetown should be—wheelchair-friendly, inclusive, and forward-thinking. By breaking barriers and setting new standards, the school ensures that every child, regardless of physical ability, can access a quality education.

As the school prepares to launch its middle school in 2025, its inclusivity and global excellence mission continue to inspire. CIS is not just a school; it is a community that nurtures abilities, celebrates diversity, and prepares students for a brighter future.

If you’re looking for a school that combines accessibility, inclusivity, and academic excellence, Choithram International School is your answer.