Education is a privilege that should never be taken for granted. The Browns School focuses on the children in society with special needs, who need extra attention and care for education to become an everyday reality. We look at how this incredible institution is changing lives one classroom at a time.
Engaging in education that challenges stereotypes
The Browns School was established to serve the community of Sherwood and its families before moving to Pinetown to expand. A goal was met for quality education with a practical and useful interface to special needs learners. The school promotes inclusivity, diversity and kindness to all. With a history that celebrated children's differences affected by Cerebral Palsy, the school developed into a safe haven for parents, teachers and students alike who sought to tackle this adversity head-on.
As early as 1943, The Browns School began spilling roots and spreading the news about schooling and caring for special needs children. A group of compassionate housewives and a concerned mother helped raise funds for a holiday home for Cerebral Palsied children. Due to the mother wanting to remain anonymous apart from being referred to as "Mrs Brown", the housewife group adopted "The Browns" for themselves and the rest is history. By 1955, the organisation was recognised as a formal institution and children were set to spend a fantastic holiday by the sea. This allowed them to socialise and mingle with their peers, becoming more comfortable with their conditions and learning how to navigate life differently.
Funds are integral to maintaining the school
By 1957, enough money had been raised to make The Browns' dreams a reality. The project began and in 1958 the Cerebral Palsy Therapy Centre was enlisted as a pre-school.12 children became the first pioneers of what has proven to be a lasting legacy of human dedication and tenacity. An important fundraising initiative that must not be overlooked is the annual fete that is held every year. It is now part of The Browns' tradition and the governing body relies on generous donations to keep providing outstanding care and the latest curriculum to its learners.
Since educating special needs children is vastly different to that of your average learner, it is far more expensive. The costs involved have been taken over by the Department of Education, Arts and Science to be run in accordance with the Special Schools Act. The school officially moved to and opened in Pinetown in 1968 and expanded its capacity even further. Today, the number of learners in attendance at The Browns School averages around 375 and a significant staff complement. Catering to the needs of children from all walks of life with a number of different disabilities, the school hopes to raise awareness and be a welcome beacon of light for parents who want to give their special needs children the best opportunities in life.
Developing social skills
Since its inception, The Browns School has specialised in a holistic approach to educating children with learning and physical disabilities. The curriculums are modern and in keeping with the best practices of quality international schools. The results speak for themselves as learners thrive and begin to grow outside of their comfort zone and the classrooms. Parents have seen the remarkable growth and change in their children. It results in expanded horizons for those with special needs children, as the learner picks up fundamental skills needed to progress in a future career and in social settings.
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