Many more years ahead for Chartwell special needs school

Parents, learners and staff enjoyed a sweet treat to usher in 32 years for local special needs school, Unity College.

September 6, 2022

Khomotso Makgabutlane 1 minute read

Tlhalefo, Maphefo, Itumeleng and Isago Sedite at the Unity College birthday celebration. Photo: Khomotso Makgabutlane

A local special needs school celebrated their 32nd birthday with learners on a sunny August 20.

The Prinsloo family of Allarice, Aaron, Sanrico and Luke have a great time at Unity College for the school’s 32nd anniversary. Photo: Khomotso Makgabutlane

Unity College may have initially turned 32 on August 1 this year, but they celebrated the day in fun style as they also hosted their annual sports day in conjunction with the day. Parents and staff got to support the young learners in the various events of the day. Athletes who placed first, second or third received medals for their efforts.

The Scott-Dos Santos family of Janine, Owen and Candice enjoy their time at Unity College 32nd celebration. Photo: Khomotso Makgabutlane

Doughnuts and cooldrinks were also handed out to all learners that afternoon after the races which they thoroughly enjoyed.
School principal Jeanine Kerr has been at the school for eight years and said there are still many more plans in place for the school as the year continues.

Anothile and his mother Dodosie Nyawo, and the Kisten family of Nanditha and Shariq at Unity College’s 32nd anniversary. Photo: Khomotso Makgabutlane

“I’m feeling so optimistic for these children. We’ve gone through Covid, we’ve come through the other end and they are so happy to be back at school.

Staff and community members of Unity College Nolene Oosthuizen, Mary Ndou-Phalannadwa, Michelle Kirk, Estelle Henderson and Zinhle Mgabhi are all smiles at the school’s birthday celebration. Photo: Khomotso Makgabutlane

“The school is growing as well, and we’ve been receiving positive feedback. We’ve received a learner from the Cape and one from the United Kingdom.”

Ameenah, Barnett, Reghana and Yaseen Marillier at Unity College for the school’s birthday celebration. Photo: Khomotso Makgabutlane

Among the latest projects are a veggie garden and the school’s employment project.
“There are new ventures on the rise which is us extending our offering to people to make education more accessible for these children. I want these to succeed because it will make the school succeed,” she said.