Our Lady of Nazareth High School and Junior College, Bhayandar West, is a Roman Catholic institution founded in 1925 and administered by Our Lady of Nazareth Church. Operating under the religious jurisdiction of the Archbishop of Mumbai, the school is affiliated with the Archdiocesan Board of Education, Bombay, and recognized by the Maharashtra State Board for Secondary and Higher Secondary Education.
We offer English-medium education from Pre-Primary through Standard XII. For almost a century, we’ve stood as one of the oldest and most respected schools in Mira Bhayandar, known for academic excellence, strong Christian values, and a focus on holistic education.
Our Legacy
What started in 1925 as a humble mission has grown into a landmark institution. Guided by faith and rooted in strong values, our school has shaped generations of students into confident, compassionate, and responsible citizens. The same spirit of service, humility, and integrity that inspired our founders continues to guide us today.
Our Motto
Our Patron
Our Vision
Reach out to everyone with a spirit of brotherhood. Nurture students to be kind, compassionate, and always willing to help.
Our Mission
Provide value-based education that fosters intellectual growth, spiritual strength, and social responsibility. We empower students to face life’s challenges with courage, integrity, and confidence.
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| Our Ex-Pre-Primary In-charge Mrs. Genevieve, Ex-Headmistress Mrs. Gracy Mendonca and Ex-Principal Mrs. Alice Fredrick |
Our Core Values
- Faith and Service
- Respect and Brotherhood
- Excellence in Learning
- Integrity and Responsibility
- Care for Community and Environment
Our Aims and Objectives
- Provide value-based education and nurture curiosity and creativity
- Create a safe, happy, and stimulating learning environment
- Promote all-round development and commitment to God and country
- Recognize and develop each student’s unique potential
- Prepare students to face academic and life challenges confidently
- Inspire resilience, responsibility, and respect for the community and environment
- Develop spiritually strong, psychologically mature, and mentally healthy individuals
The Story of Our Lady of Nazareth School — Timeline
Early 1900s – The Vision Begins
- Bhayandar was then a quiet coastal village surrounded by paddy fields, salt pans, and coconut groves.
- The East Indian community formed its heart — strong in faith, close in bonds, and eager to see their children educated.
1910 – The First Step
- In November 1910, the East Indian Association founded a school under the patronage of Our Lady of Nazareth, named Our Lady of Nazareth English Teaching School.
- It became a beacon of hope for local families determined to educate their children.
1912 – Official Registration
- The school was formally registered, educating around 78 students up to Standard IV.
- Education included practical training in jhumor and needlework, nurturing both mind and skill.
1912–1925 – Temporary Closure of Association Schools
- As local residents, government bodies, and church authorities began planning broader educational reforms, the Association Schools were gradually closed down.
- Though this marked a pause, the community’s commitment to education never wavered — it was only a matter of time before a revival began.
1925 – A New Beginning
- On 17 May 1925, the school was re-established under the same name — Our Lady of Nazareth English Medium Primary School, in association with the Archdiocese of Bombay.
- The new building was a simple chawl-style structure with a tiled roof, but it symbolized renewed purpose and faith.
Before 1949 – Government Recognition
- The school received government recognition and aid before 1949, offering classes up to Standard VII.
Mid-1950s – Transition to Marathi Medium
- Under Rev. Fr. Jose Maria Misquitta, the school gradually changed from English to Marathi medium instruction.
- As per records from 31 March 1955, there were 68 boys and 47 girls on the rolls.
1961–1962 – Complete Marathi Medium
- The transition to the Marathi medium was completed to strengthen pride in the local language and cultural identity.
1966–1967 – Return to English Medium
- Responding to changing times, the school began gradually shifting back to English medium.
- By this time, there were 225 students (128 boys and 97 girls).
1974 – Modernization and Growth
- Under Rev. Fr. Nelson Correia, the school fully transitioned to English medium once again.
- A new concrete building and spacious hall were constructed, marking a modern chapter in the school’s journey.
1981 – Higher Secondary Recognition
- The school was granted official recognition up to Standard X, expanding its reach as a Higher Secondary School.
1982 – Expansion Under Rev. Fr. Mark Misquitta
- Nine new classrooms were built to meet the growing demand for education in the parish and surrounding areas.
1994 – Continued Growth
- Under Rev. Fr. Salvador Rodrigues, eight additional classrooms and a school quadrangle were constructed — soon becoming the venue for assemblies, events, and celebrations.
2006–2007 – A New Era
- The old structure that had served generations was demolished in 2006 to make way for a modern facility.
- In 2007, under Rev. Fr. Dominic Pereira, the new school building was inaugurated by Bishop Bosco Penha.
2009 – Junior College Established
- The Our Lady of Nazareth Junior College received official recognition and began offering the Commerce stream, which continues successfully to this day.
2018–2021 – Accessibility and Safety Upgrades
- Under Rev. Fr. Barthol Machado, major upgrades were introduced, including a shed, emergency staircase, and lift.
- These facilities were inaugurated in December 2021, improving accessibility and safety for all.
2025 – A Century of Legacy
- Our Lady of Nazareth School celebrates 100 years of faith, learning, and community spirit.
- From 78 students in 1912 to generations of alumni across the world, the school stands as a pillar of education, faith, and service.
- Guided by the vision “Success Through Efforts” and the mission “Reaching out to one and all with the spirit of brotherhood,” the school steps into its second century with gratitude and pride.
Nazarene Pride, Century Wide.
