Listen: A local legacy a mother can be proud of
She also stated she beamed with pride knowing her son and daughter-in-law played a pivotal role in creating a learning environment for children in Benoni who needed an extra helping hand.
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“Michael always wanted to start a place of learning where children with learning difficulties would be able to flourish,” explained a reminiscent Kathleen.
“He started the school right here in our home and as it grew he knew he had to move it to bigger premises and that is when the move happened.
“I still remember how the children would get their school chairs and attend assemblies under the trees in Patten Road before all the classrooms could be built.
“It wasn’t just about the school work, as the children were encouraged to partake in various activities and daily prayers were at the heart of Michael’s education system.”
The iconic portrait of Kathleen and her late husband Stanley, which hung in the school for 30 years, now hangs above the family home fireplace.
Kathleen said she could not contain her joy when the portrait was returned to her.
“People still greet me in the town and stop to chat about the difference Kathstan made in the lives of their children.
“Michael believed education should be of benefit to all, regardless of any learning difficulties they may have.
“He also ensured all teachers who taught at the school had remedial teaching as a qualification.”
Kathleen said children who experience learning difficulties should start off at a young age at a school that can identify with their needs.
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“It’s important that the children are exposed to an environment that will build on the self-confidence and strengths,” she said.
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