Beyond the Blueprint: Inside Helikx Open School – A Space for Exclusive-Inclusivity in Salem

As an MBA student and a UPSC aspirant, I am very much interested in sustainable organizational design and specialized service delivery. I've often studied how institutions balance purpose and performance, aligning with policies, but sometimes, the lessons that stay with you don’t come from case studies or numbers – they come from places built on compassion.

Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Helikx Open School and Learning Centre in Salem, Tamil Nadu – and it turned out to be one of those rare, perspective-shifting experiences. My goal was to explore how an alternative school could create a successful, sustainable model for inclusive education. What I found was far more than a school – it was a vibrant ecosystem of empathy, innovation, and hope.

A Place Where Learning Feels Human

Tucked away in Pagalpatti, Helikx stands apart the moment you step in. The walls are alive with paintings, the air hums with laughter, and there’s a sense of belonging that fills every corner.

Founded by Dr. G. Senthilkumar, Helikx was the first institution in Salem district to focus exclusively on children who struggle in traditional classrooms – those with dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, dyspraxia, ADHD, and slow learning challenges.

In mainstream systems, these children often go unnoticed or misunderstood. But here, they’re seen, heard, and nurtured. Helikx doesn’t aim to “fix” them – it helps them rediscover their confidence and joy in learning.

A Vision of True Inclusion

Helikx’s philosophy is simple but profound: education should adapt to the learner, not the other way around. The school envisions a world where every child (including those on the autism spectrum) is treated with dignity, respect, and patience.

Their mission extends beyond the classroom. The team actively trains parents, teachers, and communities to understand learning differences, creating a ripple effect of awareness and acceptance. Over the years, Helikx has supported more than 10,000 students and transformed the learning journeys of 750+ gifted children.

Each success story reflects the same truth – inclusion is not about tolerance; it’s about understanding.

Teaching That Adapts to Every Child

What makes Helikx special is its personalized approach. Instead of rigid syllabi, every student follows an individualized learning plan crafted by trained teachers, psychologists, and social workers.

The school also serves as an accredited NIOS coaching center, offering flexible learning through the National Institute of Open Schooling for Classes 10 and 12. This model allows students to study at their own pace, restoring both confidence and curiosity.

Helikx uses multi-sensory teaching techniques like the VAKT method (Visual-seeing, Auditory-hearing, Kinesthetic-moving, and Tactile-touching), especially for children with dyslexia. By engaging all senses, lessons become interactive and memorable – turning learning into a joyful process rather than a pressure-filled task.

Beyond Books: Life Skills and Vocation

Helikx’s approach goes beyond academics. The school’s focus on life skills and vocational training ensures that students are prepared for independence and employability.

During my visit, I saw students learning pottery, farming, fine arts, plumbing, electrical work, and even modern skills like 2D animation, flash editing, and photography. These opportunities help children discover their strengths and potential careers.

Many Helikx graduates now work with companies like Infosys and Sutherland, proving that with empathy and structure, inclusion can lead to empowerment.

A Community That Cares

Education at Helikx is a shared journey. The school actively involves parents through workshops and counseling sessions, ensuring that learning continues at home with the same care and understanding.

For homeschooling families, Helikx provides curriculum guidance and progress tracking, making it a truly supportive environment. Every child’s progress feels like a community celebration – a reminder that growth flourishes best when nurtured with patience and love.

A Campus Filled with Color and Calm

The physical space of Helikx mirrors its philosophy – vibrant yet peaceful. Every wall is painted, every classroom feels alive. Each room is uniquely labeled – R1, R2, and so on – breaking away from the conventional classroom structure.

There’s also a beautiful library filled with diverse books. One that caught my attention was the Vocational Encyclopedia – a fascinating collection covering different trades and skills. Outside, a kitchen garden quietly thrives, reinforcing the school’s commitment to holistic, hands-on learning.

Everything about Helikx – from its colors to its courtyards – radiates warmth and purpose. It’s not just a school; it’s a sanctuary for growth.

A Model for the Future of Education

Helikx demonstrates that sustainable education isn’t just about systems – it’s about empathy. By transforming limitations into opportunities, it has become a model institution for inclusive learning in Tamil Nadu.

The school’s philosophy reminds us that every child is capable of brilliance when given understanding and support. Helikx doesn’t just teach; it transforms futures – and, in doing so, it reshapes how society perceives ability itself.

Personal Takeaways: A Lesson in True Inclusion

My visit to Helikx left me with an insight that will stay with me forever – sometimes, exclusive communities are not truly inclusive. We often talk about inclusion as a concept, but witnessing it in practice was eye-opening.

Helikx shows that inclusion isn’t about treating everyone the same; it’s about giving each person what they need to thrive. Here, children are handled with dignity, care, and special focus – not as exceptions, but as equals.

This visit was made possible through Dr. G. Senthilkumar, who also serves as a faculty member at the Knowledge Institute of Technology, where I’m pursuing my MBA. It was through his kind invitation that I got to experience this incredible place.

The school is run by his wife, Mrs. Sasikala, who serves as the Joint Secretary and guiding force behind its operations.

The experience was both humbling and totally inspiring. Helikx reminded me that when education is rooted in empathy, inclusion stops being a goal – it becomes a way of life..

by Ms. Sneha

​Ms. Sneha is an optimistic ENFJ who loves people and brings a unique blend of technology, psychology, and empathy into everything she does. With a graduation in Information Technology, a Diploma in Applied Psychology, and an ongoing MBA at KIOT, Salem, she is also a passionate UPSC aspirant with a strong interest in Human Resources. She is certified in Graphology and Organisational Psychology and is known as an interpersonal influence architect with exceptional people skills. A gifted writer and versatile reader, she enjoys exploring theology, philosophy, mythology, technology, AI, and research. A natural orator and perpetual learner, she approaches life with warmth, enthusiasm, and kindness—always adding meaning, positivity, and a cheerful smile to every moment.