The pilot program of No Name School stands as a profound milestone in bringing this shared vision to life. When Expressions of Interest opened, more than 186 registrations poured in within 24 hours, a response that spoke clearly of the community’s deep longing for such an initiative. Through a fair and transparent process, 100 children were selected across four age groups and entrusted to the care of a dedicated team of educators and volunteers who gave themselves wholeheartedly to this noble cause.
A defining highlight of the journey was the formal inauguration of No Name School on 18 June 2025, held in honour of the 65th birth anniversary of Kyabje Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse Rinpoche. The occasion was graced by His Eminence Dungse Jampel Rinpoche, whose presence uplifted the gathering and whose acceptance of the role of Special Advisor brought profound blessings to the future of the school. The ceremony, filled with prayers, cultural performances, and community celebration, marked not only an auspicious beginning but also a powerful affirmation of Rinpoche’s vision for education rooted in compassion, wisdom, and joy.
Formal sessions began soon after, on 21 and 22 June 2025, at a temporary facility generously supported by Kingston International College. We remain deeply grateful for their support, which enabled us to begin this journey. Soon after, with the blessing of securing our own facility at Unit 5, 9 Boag Road, Morley, the program continued with renewed enthusiasm and energy, providing stability and a stronger sense of belonging for both children and educators.
Across ten weeks, the children engaged in themes such as exploring emotions, respect, mindfulness, kindness, gratitude, and Bhutanese identity. Sessions were intentionally designed to be light yet meaningful — weaving together storytelling, songs, meditation, creative arts, cultural games, and nature walks. Each gathering opened and closed with practices that nurtured mindfulness and community spirit, leaving the children with a sense of joy, connection, and pride.
The successful completion of Term I was marked by the awarding of certificates to the children who completed the Preliminary Unit. This milestone represented more than an achievement; it reflected the children’s growth in mindfulness, compassion, and cultural awareness, as well as the unwavering dedication of teachers, volunteers, parents, and the broader community. At the same time, the pilot offered valuable lessons for the road ahead, including the continued refinement of the curriculum and the guidance of experts to ensure the initiative’s sustainability. More importantly, it revealed a deeper truth: our community has been quietly longing for such initiatives, and the overwhelming response affirms the need to nurture and grow this space with even greater care and commitment.
In essence, the pilot phase of No Name School has been an inspiring beginning, a seed sown with blessings, community spirit, and heartfelt dedication. It has strengthened DZTI’s commitment to build on this foundation with greater capacity and deeper impact. With the blessings of Rinpoche, the wisdom of our spiritual advisors, and the generous support of the Khyentse Foundation, we aspire to nurture this initiative into a lasting contribution — for our children, for our community, and for the timeless values we hold dear.
