History of SJA
The story of Saint John’s Academy (SJA) is a testament to the power of a “burning desire” and an unwavering commitment to the belief that there is no substitute for a sound, all-round education. Founded in 1993, the institution began with humble beginnings and a clear mission: to provide a “Centre of Learning” that enables children from all walks of life to find their niche by developing independent thinking and an understanding of the world of humanity. This journey started in a vacant, rented premises—the Sharda Talkies Cinema Hall at Naini on Mirzapur Road. Guided by the goal of offering quality education while simultaneously moulding individuals through character building and life skills, the school eventually moved toward establishing itself as a premier institution.
The transition to a permanent home was marked by years of “toil and hard work” after land was purchased in the rural area of Karchhana on the main Mirzapur Road. Through deep-seated devotion and a struggle to acquire necessary finances, the main school building was constructed, allowing the Senior School and the Hostel Wing to shift to the new site. Within five years of this move, the entire school was successfully relocated to Karchhana. Today, SJA stands as a landmark on the right bank of the Ganga, providing high-quality academic education to children from all sections of society, including free and semi-free education for those from economically weaker sections.
This vision was a true family mission led by Mr. C.V. Innes (Chairman) and supported by Mrs. D. Innes and their children, Michelle and Mitchell. Mitchell Ryan Innes, described as a visionary “Karmayogi,” took it upon himself to personally supervise the day-to-day construction activity on-site. Though he is no longer with us, his legacy and “footprints” remain visible in every corner of the academy. Michelle Innes played an equally gigantic role, supervising the Junior School at its original location while contributing significantly to the design, planning, and implementation of the school’s permanent facilities. Mrs. D. Innes provided steadfast support throughout this 25-year journey, personally laying the foundation stones for the main school building and the school hospital.
SJA was founded on the principle of reversing negative social trends by teaching students to differentiate reality from “illusion” and returning to “basics” wherever needed. The academy remains dedicated to promoting a truly secular and democratic educational environment, believing that the reward for such efforts lies in the struggle and the purpose of creating a legacy for future generations. As Mr. C.V. Innes reflects, with the blessing of God, what is possible is infinitely greater than what we believe to be probable, and so the journey continues.
