Prism celebrates five years of changing lives and building futures
The centre began as a mere empty building with just the bare minimum
ERMELO – Prism Training Centre for special needs children celebrated the school’s fifth birthday on October 24.
The saying ‘it takes a village to raise a child’ perfectly describes the Prism Training Centre, as Gerda Smuts, founder of the centre says she could not have done it without the continuous support of the community.
Smuts, along with the board members, teachers and children celebrated this milestone with cake and a fun-filled afternoon.
“As we reflect on our journey, we are filled with gratitude for the community and businesses that have stood by us over the years.
“Your support has made a huge difference in the lives of our children and their families,” Smuts said.
With the help of dedicated staff, volunteers and families, they created an environment where every child can thrive.
The centre began as a mere empty building with just the bare minimum.
Her dreams are to liven up the school with beautiful walls, to have a sandpit for the kids and to one day have an open space for the learners with cerebral palsy to play.
Smuts obtained her BEd degree in 2009 and began teaching at Hoërskool Ermelo.
A few years later, she accepted a position at Netherland Park Secondary School, and although she has a passion for helping and teaching children and enjoyed every moment at both schools, she felt the need to do more.
She spoke to some of her friends about her dream to open a school for special needs kids, but it just never felt like the right time.
In 2019, Smuts impulsively decided to resign from her job and follow her dream.
Smuts has since dedicated her time and resources to create a beautiful centre where all the children have a safe space to learn, grow and reach their milestones on their own time.
Read the complete article in Highvelder.
