Timaru Girls High School has a purpose built suite for students with special needs. This facility is well equipped with a kitchen, bathroom, toilet, laundry, physiotherapy room, storeroom, dayroom and office. Students are encouraged to help with the daily household chores to develop their skills for independent living.
The suite is an area where teachers and support staff can work with small groups of students. It is staffed from 8.15am to 3.30pm each day. It is also an area where students can eat their lunch and socialise with their peers or cuddle Rosie the local cat. She is much loved!
The latest ERO report for Timaru Girls’ High School 30/01/2009 states
“Effective pastoral care systems support students' wellbeing. Those with special learning needs are well catered for through the use of teacher aides and the special needs unit.”
All students with special needs are included in mainstream classes. The degree of their inclusion depends entirely on their individual learning and personal welfare needs. A personalised timetable is prepared for students who need visual prompts. Regular activities outside of mainstream classes are included in this timetable to help students prepare for changes and adapt to new routines.
Riding for the Disabled
All students with disabilities are given the opportunity to attend RDA on a weekly basis. They travel in the school van and are accompanied by a teacher aide. This weekly activity provides students with the opportunity to meet and converse with other adults in the community as well as to learn how to care for the horses they ride.
Music with Dale
Once a fortnight Dale McKay runs a music and movement session in the suite for our students. Dale provides an interesting musical programme with lots of variety for staff and students alike.
Speech Games and Activities
Every week students with speech difficulties play a selection of games and activities which are especially designed to improve their grammar and articulation. These games build student confidence and are enjoyed by the students involved.
Craft
Every Friday afternoon the senior students in the suite make a variety of crafts. These sessions provide students with an opportunity to improve their hand eye co-ordination and dexterity.
Special outings are planned each term to add variety and to help students learn about the community in which they live.
Occasional trips to Oamaru give students the opportunity to play tenpin bowls and swim in warm water at the Waitaki Aquatic Centre.
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