KUTGS history

Kingston Upon thames Gujarati School (KUTGS) was founded in May 1987 when some parents approached the Labour Party in Kingston to hire premises so that their children could learn Gujarati.

Raju Pandya,current Head of School,was approached to take on the running of the classes and six children attended. At the end of July 1987, following discussions with the education department, a local Primary school was chosen as the venue and extensive publicity followed. The school started its first year with 15 students and at the end of the academic year the student roll was nearly 50.

In May 1989, some parents wished that the school should be more formalised and the foundations were laid for the beginning of KUTGS.

KUTGS today

Since these humble beginnings, KUTGS has now grown to over 80 pupils in five classes, with pupil number rising through word of mouth and recommendations. This increase in numbers has not been at the expense of exam results - these continue to be amongst the best in the UK. KUTGS is actively supported by Royal Borough of Kingston.

Important for pupils and parents alike, KUTGS aims to enrich the understanding and appreciation of our culture. It has become an important focal point for the Gujarati Community, here in Kingston.

For example, festivals such as Diwali, Nav Ratri, Holi and Christmas are celebrated every year. Activities such as Rangoli, Mehndi, a recent concert by a Bhajan singers and school visits to Bollywood films help to keep the rich heritage alive.

Annual Talent and Cultural shows aim to demonstrate and develop the many skills of pupils through song, dance, drama, music and even joke telling! Pupils are encouraged to participate and be recognised by their peers, Teachers, Governors and Parents alike.

The School also aims to promote better understanding of other cultures. Last year, we had a performance by a ballet company from Russia.

There is also an annual sports day, where pupils are encouraged to compete on the sports field and make friends. A Youth Club has recently been introduced as well as involvement in the Duke Of Edinburgh' s Award Scheme.

KUTGS aims are to support pupils realise their full potential in all areas and to develop themselves.

KUTGS tomorrow

To build this success further, KUTGS is putting in place a new five year development plan endorsed by Kingston Council. This aims to deliver the Schools mission statement, which is summarised below.

Progressing since 1987 to:

• Become the pre-eminent provider of Gujarati language and cultural education in Royal Borough of Kingston (RBK) and beyond.
• Promote further good citizenship and responsibility amongst Pupils, Staff, Governors, Parents and the wider community.
• Increase the size and performance of the School, in terms of pupil numbers, funds, profile and academic results.
• Develop closer links with the local community, voluntary organisations, RBK and other statutory organisations.