Disability Awareness Month Assembly || November 2023

written by Ms Spain 

International Day of Persons with Disabilities

International Day of Persons with Disabilities (December 3) is an international observance promoted by the United Nations since 1992. It has been observed with varying degrees of success around the planet. The observance of the day aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilise support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. It also seeks to increase awareness of gains to be derived from the integration of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural, life.

The Rights of the Child - Article 23

Article 23 states that we all must recognise that a mentally or physically disabled child should enjoy a full and decent life, in conditions which ensure dignity, promote self-reliance and facilitate the child's active participation in the community.

The Assembly

On Friday November 24th we at South Grove did more than this. PLM treated the whole South Grove community to a lovely assembly that spoke about Disabilities in the most positive and beautiful manner.

We thoroughly enjoyed hearing from so many individuals including children, staff and parents about what it is like growing up with a disability. This assembly was not seen as limiting but was a celebration of all of the talents and unique characters within our school. If you left with dry eyes, I am very surprised.

I felt more than proud to be part of this wonderful community. South Grove you did it again! This assembly is one that I will hold close in my thoughts as it was open, honest and heart warming. The children in the dinner hall today told me it was the top assembly!

It wasn’t only the children and staff who loved it – here’s what the parents had to say:

That was the most wonderful display of humanity at it’s most beautiful!

The challenges, the difficulties and all obstacles were not an issue and they overcame them all!!

I was so proud of PLM and the other children in the school. It was an amazing performance and the crowd were perfect!

I enjoyed it and it was such a superb performance. Well done to all