Optim-Ed goes the extra mile
Aside from the fact that the school offers specialised teaching for kids with special needs of many ages and levels, they also try to give the kids a career of sorts after school.
OPTIM-ED Learning Centre in Alberton caters for children and young adults from 3-18 years old.
Aside from the fact that the school offers specialised teaching for kids with special needs at various ages and levels, they also try to give the kids a career of sorts after school.
The school works in collaboration with certain businesses like salons – where girls learn to do hair and make-up – and car repair workshops (for mechanics), that allow kids from the school to get practical work experience; that they could possibly use one day post-school.
Optim-Ed is planning on starting a coffee shop in 2017, as a place where graduates of the school can work; and they’re also looking at helping help some of the boys to possibly get a garden service going, to give them the opportunity to make a living – and/or just some extra money and to keep them busy.
The school currently has 25 staff members, 17 of whom are teachers, who see to the needs of the children.
“My staff are the heart of the school,” says Bonnie Botha, the school’s principal. “I have a dynamic, well trained team who go the extra mile,” she adds.
Even the teaching methods are revolutionary, trying to incorporate as many tactile, sensory-based aspects to the class – which help to stimulate the children – as possible, plus help them remember what they’ve learned.
“We try to build their confidence and we don’t just focus on academics, but also their physical development with sport, namely soccer and netball; and other physical activities,” explained Botha.
Teachers are all trained in some first aid, especially CPR – and drills are performed to keep skills honed, in case of an emergency.
The school gives hope and purpose to many who would perhaps never have the opportunity to amount to much, making them a true local treasure.
