Daveyton school a silver lining for children with learning disabilities
The skills development centre caters to children with education needs, the school was formerly known as Sozizwe Primary School in Daveyton.
There is no greater disability in society than the inability to see a person as more. – Robert M Hensel
This was the sentiment shared by the teachers at the Daveyton Skills School, as an encouragement to their learners who have learning disabilities.
The skills development centre caters to children with educational needs. The school was formerly known as Sozizwe Primary School in Daveyton.
In 2016, the primary school was converted into a school for children with mild intellectual disabilities.
The school started with 25 learners and now they accommodate over 400 learners who are empowered to learn practical life skills and start their businesses.
The school has in-house nurses and a psychologist that assist the pupils with daily learning difficulties.
Principal Thembi Letsoalo said the skills available at the school are beauty, motor mechanic, woodwork, welding, art/craft and hospitality classes.
“We care for children between the ages of 13 and 20 who are referred to us by other schools within Gauteng.
“They are then orientated for a year and they learn multiple courses and choose from year two which skill they want to excel in, “ said Letsoalo.
“The school has partnered with local companies that give the learner’s trade practicals before they graduate and get certificates that will give them long-standing careers by the time they complete their four-year duration.
“The learners are also taught how to write curriculum vitae, how to handle interviews and they also get to do their learners license while at the school.”
Letsoalo said in 2022 will be the first time that they will offer endorsed matric certificates with five subjects.
“We will also be adding driving lessons as part of our curriculum, to ensure that they are ready for the working environment,” she said.
SGB chairperson Vincent Mogale said as parents they are pleased that there is a school that caters to their children’s needs.
“As a parent, I have seen the difference in my child at first I wasn’t aware that my child was different however as parents we are also taught by the school how to treat our children,” said Mogale.
“Children with learning disabilities are not crazy, they just need patients and attention which they can’t get from normal schools due to overcrowding. We please to the government to invest in these schools as there is a need in our communities.”
The school welcomes any sponsorship, donations, and businesses that would like to take their learners for learnerships.
For more information contact Letsoalo on 011 424 3803.
