RIA was created in 1999 to cater to the needs of students with Autism, who might otherwise slip through the cracks in the school system. It was founded by Dr. Emad Al Attar and his wife Christine Gordon. Seeing the way that their autistic son was needlessly ostracized at pre-school because of his lack of communication skills, they set out  to create a place where all children could feel safe and loved whilst gaining, a first class education.

The whole concept of RIA was that it would be a 'not for profit' organization, as this would ensure that the ultimate goal of a first class education, was never forgotten. Also by bringing in volunteer helpers RIA would involve as many members of the community as possible. It soon became obvious that it was not fair to limit the Special Ed Unit to students with Autism alone. Many would be students, were being denied their right to an education. Horizons were expanded and students with other communication disorders joined the RIA fold along with their normally learning brothers , sisters and friends.

It wasn't an easy journey. Initially many people did not understand the concept of both a holistic and an integrated education. Some could not accept what their eyes were showing them that students with Special Educational Needs could share the same building and facilities with normally learning children to the benefit of everyone concerned.

In the space of a few short years the wheel has come full circle. More and more schools in Bahrain are opening up to Integration and parents of our normally learning students are proud to see their children as part of the RIA family. Families of former students are our best advertisement. They extol the virtues of their children learning early in their lives that not everyone dances to the same beat of the drum and that caring and compassion are ideals you can really live by.

In fact, these days places at RIA and Kids Castle Nursery are sought after and are always in short supply; a tribute to the dedication of all our staff , our students and their families!