In 2001, South Africa adopted an inclusive approach to education through Education White Paper 6. This policy outlines strategies to be implemented for the provision of support in education to accommodate a wide range of learning needs. In acknowledgement of the resources and expertise that exist in special schools, the policy envisaged that special schools be strengthened to function as resource centres offering system-wide support to learners who require a high level of support. IESA has put together a fact sheet with this information and more regarding special schools as resource centres and what you need to know. To print or view this factsheet click here.
Today we have the last in our series of interviews with the Unfit Dads. We have the privilege of introducing Andrew Van Der Walt, who is passionate about encouraging all "Unfit Dads" to create change that will be a benefit to their families and communities. IESA: Please introduce yourself Andrew: Andrew van der Walt is the name, continuous improvement is the game. I am 36 years old, married to one wife and share the joy of parenting 3 gorgeous kids – Nicholas (10), Stefan (4) and Bethany (10 months). My day designation is an accountant for Red Bull South Africa Pty Ltd, while interacting and serving various churches through J-Life South Africa. IESA: What was your experience of school growing up? Andrew: I loved school – for me, school was cool.…
This week we introduce our second "unfit dad" Nigel Williams. Nigel's passion for his community and children is rooted in having to overcome many obstacles himself. We are privileged to be able to share a bit of his story and learn why this initiative is so close to his heart. IESA: Please share with us a bit more of yourself, your occupation and family… Nigel: My name is Nigel Williams, I am 50 years old and married to Chevonne Williams. We have two sons, Andre (23) and Lushin (16). I'm a personal trainer at BODYTEC City bowl and a group exercise trainer at Virgin Active. I also do voluntary work for two non-profit organizations - Study Buddyz and Horizon Discovery. I love working with people, I love cooking...not that I'm a great…
With respect to the right to education, reasonable accommodation means ensuring the specific support needs of learners with disabilities are provided for so that they are able to equitably participate in learning alongside their peers. To print or view this factsheet click here
Our vision is a fully inclusive society in which all people can participate to their fullest potential and where diversity is recognized, respected and promoted. Inclusion and diversity is a topic that is relevant for all organisations, regardless of the size of the staff. While it sounds obvious to state that we all deserve to work in an environment that is free from discrimination, harassment, victimisation and bullying, unfortunately, this is not always the reality in the workplace. Businesses cannot continue to grow if everyone within them thinks the same, acts the same and has the same interests or if individuals do not feel a sense of belonging. The practices of Inclusion and Diversity ensure that your business will be open to new ideas and new ways of thinking…
Caroline Taylor was one of the founding members of Inclusive Education South Africa. Over the years, she has made a valuable and lasting contribution to the movement. This has been seen in her personal commitment to parents and teachers, both through her work in the Information and Support Programme and in her consistent and tireless efforts to raise awareness in education and other communities where children are at risk of exclusion. IESA was originally started as the Western Cape Forum for Inclusive Education in 1995. It was composed of a group of NGOs and individuals who were involved in education and/or disability issues. Some, including Caroline, were parents who had had personal experience of the difficulty of accessing educational support for their own children. There was always a strong awareness…
“ Full-service/inclusive schools are first and foremost mainstream education institutions that provide quality education to all learners by supplying the full range of learning needs in an equitable manner. They should strive to achieve access, equity, quality and social justice in education. ” Guidelines for Full Service Schools, DBE, 2010 Download our Factsheet for more information here
Eric Watlington, Andrew Van Der Walt and Nigel Williams are three "unfit dads" from Cape Town, who were caught up in the hype of running their first Two Oceans half marathon. Unfortunately, the Ballot process for this event favours club runners and these semi-novice runners were not chosen to run. When they found out that IESA was nominated as one of the Two Oceans Charity Entries, they saw it as an opportunity to not only "purchase" an entry by raising the funds but to raise awareness for the organisation as well. Hence, the #3unfitdads campaign began!! Three Fathers, One goal to complete their first half marathon, and only twelve weeks to get ready! Each Dad is trying to get 21 people to sponsor R 100 for one kilometre. In total,…
The School Based support team is one of the most important structures within the schooling system when we look at the implementation and provision of support and reasonable accommodations for children with support needs. IESA has just released our latest Factsheet as an open education resource. Please feel free to download and share - if you have any questions or enquiries please contact us at info@included.org.za IESA FACTSHEET: THE ROLE AND FUNCTION OF THE SCHOOL BASED SUPPORT TEAM
Micha Weir, the mother of Liam Weir, shares below how the German International School Cape Town DSK and one of the teachers have made a difference in their son's schooling. "The DSK is including our son Liam with Down Syndrome since 2016. He is happily and proudly included now as Grade 9c class member. Liam is thriving and learning proof that inclusion is the best for our children, the whole school, and our community. When Liam started his inclusion at the school, many people were very nervous. Mr. Pandit, as Liam's Grade 8 class teacher last year, embraced the challenge from the first moment and with his respect, encouragement broke down every barrier. He was a role model for the school community but also realised and promoted how Liam and…
