Learning more about Down Syndrome

Esperanza Special Needs School held its open day last week. The day was sponsored by Blackrock Casino and Newlife Church.

“The purpose of the open day is to educate the people in Newcastle about autism and Down Syndrome, and to have them interact with the students,” said school principal Mrs Jennifer Pillay.

Mrs Pillay said many people did not understand special needs children, and often viewed them as ‘different’ or ‘aggressive’.

“Many pregnancies are terminated, due to people not being properly informed,” she said.

Mrs Pillay said being the principal of a special needs school was not smooth sailing, and it made her realise she still had a lot to learn, because not one child was the same.

“You need to work with your heart, and you need to have patience, kindness and lots of love to do this kind of work.”

Esperanza consists of 42 students and 10 teachers. They are a non governmental organisation which relies solely on public donations and contributions.

“Without the help of the public we would not be able to keep our doors open,” concluded Mrs Pillay.