Specialist care for 200 children with disabilities

Vincent, who is now 12 years old, joined Percy Davies School in 2017 after his parents got frustrated with the school he was enrolled in as he had made very little progress.  Vincent is autistic and has echolaria which makes it very difficult for him to communicate and, understandably, makes him frustrated.  His inability to communicate initially meant that he was isolated and unable to socialise with his class peers.  Little by little Vincent started getting used to the school routine and adapted very well.  During bright days, Vincent used to hum some melodies.  After listening carefully, the teachers realized that they were the popular lyrics being played on local radio stations thus they found a way to keep him calm by singing along with him when he felt frustrated and were able to bond with him.

Vincent has become very confident and leads the class out for break and meal time, he likes helping the teachers (including pointing out when other students are misbehaving!).  He has acquired good fine and motor skills, is a budding photographer and is very organized.  He has shown a lot of interest in IT (information technology) and is enjoying taking part in training on how to use tablets provided by the government in the school.  Teacher Sarah said that they are all very pleased to see this progress in him.  We wish Vincent and the other students all the best as they get to learn the new curriculum with the evolving technology. 

The two schools have qualified and dedicated teachers who go out of their way to ensure that each student is able to thrive in their own different ability and fulfil their potential.  The lessons and facilities are tailored to providing for the special educational needs of each child. 

The past month has been busy at both schools with students returning for the new school year and new students joining them.  During the school holidays we made significant improvements to the accessibility for students with mobility limitations at Kirunguru School.  The site is very hilly so the new ramps will enable students to get around easier, particularly in the rainy season.  Next week new musical instruments will be delivered which will allow the students, many of whom have communication difficulties, an opportunity to express themselves.

In an effort to enable the schools to be more sustainable, we have planted more fruit tree seedlings in both schools to supplement the student’s lunches.  Percy Davies School are also installing a greenhouse this week to grow vegetables in.  Any surplus harvest can be sold to the local community to generate some income for the school to pay for materials.  

All of this would not have been possible without your continuous support and on behalf of Kirunguru and Percy Davies special schools, I would like to thank you for generous support towards Specialist care for 200 children with disabilities (34184) 

Your giving has gone along way to ensure that we are able to provide holistic care and an equalized education opportunity for children with disability and give them a voice in society, thank you.