My experience with remedial schools

My experience with remedial schools

My experience with remedial schools has truly been eye-opening. The difference in the environment compared to mainstream schooling is surreal; I have been to both respectively and I can say with certainty that remedials pride themselves on inclusivity. The children are brought up in an immensely supportive environment. The perspective shared regarding their efforts made towards the kids is amazing to witness. Judgement and prejudices don’t exist in these schools as they promote and uphold acceptance and humanity. When I facilitated one of our kids it felt so different compared to other mainstream schools as the kids were so warm, welcoming and inclusive with regards to my kid. They understood that some kids are special, and a little different, just as they are. They accept that each individual is unique. They wouldn’t say hurtful things to my kid or ask inappropriate questions. We get asked quite inappropriate questions at mainstream schools fairly often. I admire the remedial schools because they make every child feel equal and a part of the society. The teachers are amazing too. They are supportive and understanding of each individual child’s needs. They know how to foster that belonging and accepting factor. The values that the kids are taught in these schools appear to be a little different to those of mainstream schools. Children in remedials are shaped to understand that each child is different and that each child needs a friend. I have never before observed such an absence of cliques as I do at these schools – truly an extraordinary phenomenon. Cliques play a pivotal role in children’s social development at schools. Cliques often lead to children feeling like outcasts and different. Remedial schools cultures are of such a nature that cliques cannot manifest. It is amazing to see how these children treat one another and accept their peers. The care, love and compassionate traits these children possess are admirable. Remedial schools can be rather stigmatized however as parents always tend to push for mainstream schooling – remedials on the other hand – should be celebrated more and more for the abundance of opportunities it presents for children with disabilities. They give every child an equal and fair opportunity to acquire precious education. Sending your child with a disability to a remedial school is the best thing you will do; the environment will promote development with regards to the amazing person they will one day be. A remedial school is to be considered if your child needs an environment to develop social, emotional and intellectual skills. Remedial schools should never be stigmatized as stated earlier; they should be celebrated for the unique environment they offer. They truly allow your child the platform to stand out for his/her astonishing achievements.

Karin Coetzee