The others did not know the existence of such schools. Neither did they see any urgency or obligation that they should give an education to their deaf or blind child, when they did not know of a school for them. The traditional Hindu Society saw in the deaf or the blind an act of God, which had to be accepted by the individual and the family. Charity and sympathy were given to them in large measures. Education which was sought by all, mainly for white collar jobs, was not thought of for the handicapped children. But an observation of the growth of the school, its popularity, the response of the parents and the public within a short time of it's founding, in spite of many difficulties and without any publicity, reveals the fact that Nuffield School has developed into a accepted institution in Sri Lanka.

The introduction of Free Education in 1943, the over crowding in the Ratmalana Schools, the mother tongue made the medium of instruction, and the Independence in 1948, altogether caused the birth pangs of Nuffield School. Yet it took nine years for the idea to be born to reality. In 1956 the school commenced with 18 students & 04 staff, where all students were non resident. In 1961 the first dormitory block was constructed and the student population increased to approximately 60, with many students residing within. Apart from studies vocational training, and oriental dancing too were commenced as subjects in the school.

The school grew in numbers of students and buildings. More class rooms and dormitories were added on as time went by and tutorial staff was recruited for the school, matrons and others for the hostels. Nuffield started her own poultry and cattle farm in the mid seventies, which was a benefit for the students where their daily requirement of milk and eggs was concerned.