Learners with special needs compete in athletics
The event is held annually and it has been a school tradition for more than 40 years.
Despite the majority of learners at West Rand School being wheelchair-bound or having their own unique physical and mental disability, they still proved that anyone is capable of becoming a champion.
West Rand School (that caters for a variety of learners with special needs) proved that anyone is capable of becoming a champion.
According to organisers Aninke Schutte and Marise Venter, over 183 learners took part in various disciplines during their annual interhouse athletics event.
“They all displayed some great talent and skill. The event was also held in good spirit.”
Competing in the abled section were a total of 83 learners while more than 100 learners competed in the disabled section. The teams were Blesbok, Springbok and Rooibok.
Disciplines included among others discus and javelin throwing, high jumping, long-distance running (1 200m and 1 500m) and short-distance running (60m, 80m, 100m, 150m and 200m). To add, learners with physical disabilities are grouped in classes, based on their abilities.
They participated in distance and accuracy bean bags, seated events like club throw and shotput. Learners also took part in Lance and Slalom.
Du’Juan Mandl running.“All teachers were involved throughout the day and worked with learners to assist them in the event. There were coaches and staff that were allocated to assist learners when eating and drinking. “It takes a village to raise a child and at West Rand School it takes a hard-working dedicated group of teachers and assistants. Everyone helped and jumped in when and where help was needed,’’ organisers said.
