Carpe Diem is a school for learners with special education needs in George and recently caught the attention of a major British news station.
The British television network ITV, recently did a story about the school’s initiative to feed 180 families during the lockdown for their ITV news programme. This is more than triple the number of families supported before the Covid-19 pandemic hit.
Headteacher Elzeth Grobler said the families she helps are in “dire straights” and that many have “lost their jobs and cannot afford to feed their children.” The school also recently celebrated a milestone.
The school celebrated its 21st anniversary by remembering those who were no longer with them and those are still striving to make a difference, every day, in the lives of the school’s learners. “We would like to thank the community for supporting us and giving us their acceptance and love through the years. May c forever be a beacon of hope for future generations,” Principal Elzeth Grobler said.
The school grew from 30 learners and two teachers to 364 learners and a full staff complement that includes educators, a multidisciplinary team, an inclusive educational team, hostel staff and general workers.
“We will continue to develop the unique potential of every learner with special needs and encourage them to serve in their community with the skills and confidence they have acquired at Carpe Diem School,” Grobler added.
Highlights in the school’s history include featuring in “Hansie the movie (2009)” and “Born to win (2014)”, and the recent opening of a unit for deaf learners.
