The Star Retailers Foundation has become instrumental in the early childhood development of Phoenix and has once again given back to the community with the successful launch of the very first Sensory Integrated Unit for the learners of the special needs school, Zara Academy of Learning, on Thursday, 10 November.
The launch was part of the Foundation’s Dream Big Little Reader project and major milestone for the academy which became the first school in Phoenix to use equine therapy. This involves the stabling of a horse at the school to help with sensory, hand eye coordination and motor skills activities, as part of the development of special needs children. Project co-ordinator Keshina Hiralall said: “The Dream Big Little Reader initiative has been making waves in refurbishing libraries and stocking them with books in primary schools across Phoenix since last year. When we were approached by Zara Academy of Learning to refurbish their entire school, we were excited to take up the challenge as this school focuses on special needs education.”
She said: “Primary schools in our communities are already facing a severe lack of resources, it was heart breaking to see that these kids who require the extra special attention and support had minimum to no educational material that were tailored to their learning. As The Star Retailers Foundation we took it upon ourselves to fully equip the sensory unit, filled it with play and learning equipment to enhance the children’s learning experience.” The Foundation refurbished a classroom space which is bursting with abstract art, charts and exercise books to strengthen their learning abilities. In addition to this, the children also received an upgraded jungle gym to enjoy. The principal of the Zara Academy of Learning, Mrs Bilkees Musthafa said: “From inception, of this non-funded school, we worked hard on making this a place where learners can benefit, despite their special needs.”
She said special needs children learn from different methods and ways which involves continuously introducing ways to stimulate their senses, even while teaching them mainstream curriculum. “When Serena approached us and wanted to know what more the Star Retails Foundation could do for the academy learners, the idea of the Sensory Integrated Unit was formed. Being that this is the first in the school, it has turned out to be more than expected. The sensory unit is beneficial to our learners in enhancing a holistic learning experience,” said Mrs Musthafa. She added: “Words are not enough to show how grateful we are to Mr and Mrs Jagadasan and the Star Retailers Foundation team. We are overwhelmed with the outcome of our Sensory Integrated Unit and can’t wait for our learners to get started. Their faces were elated in awe when they saw the final product and seeing their smiles its motive enough for us to persevere even more and give them the best we can. “We are the first school to have this unit and are paving the way to motivate other special needs school. We are thankful the Jagadasan, Star Retails Foundation and all members that helped us build the foundation for future children that will be in need of these facilities.”
