SAPS and CPF join autism awareness event at Felicitas School
From music programmes to police engagement, learners experience a day of fun and learning.
An autism awareness event held at Felicitas School on April 18 brought together educators, community partners, and law enforcement to promote inclusion, support, and understanding for learners with special educational needs.
Brakpan SAPS social crime prevention and communications officer Constable Audrey Buthelezi and CPF Sector One members attended the event.
Felicitas School caters to learners with intellectual disabilities and has a dedicated autism department.
“It is part of the SAPS programme to create safer and secure learning environments, and schools catering to autistic children also have a need for a safe and secure learning environment,” said Buthelezi.
“The SAPS and Basic Education Department’s partnership protocol focuses on developing and supporting the implementation of school-based crime prevention programmes, promoting the SAPS image, and building positive relationships between schools, communities, and police stations.
“This partnership is crucial for ensuring that vulnerable children, including those with autism, are protected and supported in their educational environment.”
According to Buthelezi, among the day’s activities were JumpAholics SA, a fitness programme for the children, and Music Minds, a cognitive development programme using music stimulation.
Autism support teams from neighbouring schools also attended. Different stalls sold a variety of food, drinks, toys, and other items related to the theme of the event.
ALSO CHECK: Inspirerende senior (71) bewys dit is nooit te laat vir avontuur nie
Buthelezi and CPF members delighted some of the children by activating the flashing blue and white lights and sirens on their vehicles.
“The children showed genuine excitement when they were allowed to touch a police vehicle and took pictures,” said Buthelezi.
Felicitas School teacher, and organiser of the event, Nadia Bezuidenhout, said the main objective of the day was to raise awareness and funds that will go towards developing an “Activities of Daily Living” house which will assist autistic learners to develop basic skills.
School principal Daleen Visser expressed appreciation to SAPS and CPF members for their presence, noting that they attended not only in a security capacity but also in a caring and supportive role.
