In accordance with the guidelines of the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI), every institution offering teacher education in special education must have a Model School within its premises or in close proximity.

At Pope Paul Mercy Home Teachers Training Centre, the Pope Paul Mercy Home Special School (Santhivanam) serves as the Model School. The school caters to more than 80 children with intellectual and developmental disabilities, providing a comprehensive range of services including assessment, early intervention, individualized special education, therapeutic support, and vocational training.

This close integration between the training centre and the special school offers student teachers invaluable hands-on experience. They gain practical exposure by observing classroom sessions, participating in therapy and assessment activities, engaging with parents, and making home visits. This real-world interaction helps trainees understand each child’s unique needs and equips them with the skills to design and implement effective intervention programs.