La Martiniere for Girls, located at 4 Rawdon Street, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700017, India, is a prestigious educational institution with a rich history and a commitment to academic excellence. Established in 1836 by Major General Claude Martin, a French soldier and philanthropist, the school has been a beacon of quality education for nearly two centuries. The institution operates under the motto 'Labore et Constantia,' meaning 'By Labour and Constancy,' reflecting its emphasis on hard work and consistent effort.
History and Legacy
Major General Claude Martin, born in Lyon, France, in 1735, arrived in India in 1752. Over his distinguished military career, he amassed significant wealth and envisioned establishing educational institutions for the public good. His will, executed posthumously in 1840, led to the founding of La Martiniere Schools in Kolkata, Lucknow, and Lyon. The Kolkata branch began operations on March 1, 1836, initially as a single institution. In 1840, it was bifurcated into La Martiniere for Boys and La Martiniere for Girls, with the latter situated at Rawdon Street.
Academic Programs
La Martiniere for Girls is affiliated with the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE), offering education from Lower Nursery to Class XII. The curriculum is designed to foster holistic development, integrating academic rigor with co-curricular activities. The school emphasizes experiential learning, encouraging students to engage in sports, music, theatre, photography, art, technology, and community service. This approach aims to cultivate responsible and well-rounded individuals capable of contributing positively to society.
Achievements
Over the years, La Martiniere for Girls has garnered numerous accolades for its academic and co-curricular achievements. The school has produced many renowned women in fields such as sports, science, and liberal arts. Notably, Sir Catchick Paul Chater, an alumnus who studied under the school's foundation scheme, became a prominent banker and philanthropist in Hong Kong. His contributions significantly bolstered the school's financial stability during challenging times. In recognition of its contributions to education, the Department of Posts, India, issued a commemorative stamp during the school's 175th-year celebration.
Infrastructure and Facilities
The school's campus is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to support modern education:
- Library: A well-stocked library with a vast collection of books and digital resources, fostering a love for reading and research among students.
- Science Laboratories: Dedicated labs for Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, equipped with modern apparatus to facilitate practical learning.
- Computer Science Lab: A computer lab with high-end systems, providing students with the necessary tools to excel in the digital age.
- Smart Classrooms: Classrooms equipped with interactive boards and LED screens, integrating technology into teaching and enhancing the learning experience.
- Auditoriums: Two spacious auditoriums with a combined seating capacity of over 500, serving as venues for cultural events, seminars, and workshops.
- Sports Facilities: A large playground, basketball courts, and a swimming pool, promoting physical fitness and sportsmanship among students.
- Art and Music Rooms: Dedicated spaces for art and music, encouraging creative expression and artistic development.
- Audio-Visual Theatre: A state-of-the-art audio-visual theatre for interactive sessions and presentations, enhancing the learning environment.
- Indoor Games Room: A facility for indoor games, providing students with options for recreational activities.
- Medical Room: A well-equipped medical room with a qualified nurse, ensuring the health and well-being of students.
- Cafeteria: A cafeteria serving nutritious meals, promoting healthy eating habits among students.
- Transportation: While the school does not provide a school-run transportation service, parents can arrange private pick-up or drop-off facilities through trusted local providers.
- CCTV Surveillance: The campus is under 24x7 CCTV surveillance, ensuring the safety and security of students and staff.
Faculty
The school boasts a dedicated and qualified faculty committed to nurturing the intellectual and personal growth of students. Teachers employ innovative teaching methods, integrating technology and experiential learning to make education engaging and effective. The faculty's commitment to continuous professional development ensures that they remain abreast of the latest educational trends and practices.
Admission Process
Admissions to La Martiniere for Girls are conducted annually. For the academic session 2026-2027, online application forms for admission to Lower Nursery were made available on the school's official website in July 2025. For other classes, applications can be sent via email to the Secretary's office at [email protected], accompanied by a scanned copy of the candidate's birth certificate, the last report card (if available), and brief biodata for the parents. The school emphasizes a transparent and merit-based admission process, ensuring that deserving students have the opportunity to join the institution.
Conclusion
La Martiniere for Girls stands as a testament to Major General Claude Martin's vision of providing quality education for the public good. With a rich legacy, a commitment to academic excellence, and a focus on holistic development, the school continues to shape young women into responsible and capable individuals ready to face the challenges of the modern world.