Nurturing: The ‘Integrated Sensory Therapy Room and Snoezelen Project’.
TO prevent pupils with disabilities from falling through the cracks, Taylor’s College is collaborating with RISE Educator Award 2023 winner Velerie Wheeleveron Primus to bolster special education in SK Bingkor in Keningau, Sabah.
The “Integrated Sensory Therapy Room and Snoezelen Project”, a designated area for multisensory experiences tailored to pupils with special education needs, aims to tackle challenges in motor development, cognitive language, social interaction, learning focus and behaviour management, to create a safe and nurturing environment for their well-being.
SK Bingkor headmistress Madalina Juanis said the project aligned with Velerie’s mission to uplift the rights of pupils with special education needs.
In addition to being the champion of the RISE Educator Award, Velerie holds the title of State Cultural Icon in Sabah and has earned numerous accolades at the state, national and international levels.
These include the Excellence Teacher 2022, State Cultural Icon Teacher of Sabah for 2021 and 2022, Innovation Teacher 2022, National Performing Arts Teacher Candidate 2023, Sabah Chief Minister’s Award 2018, Sabah State Ministry of Technology and Innovation Award 2019, Golden Award Folklore Dance Russian Federation 2021, and more than 10 gold awards in innovation competitions.
“This initiative reflects our collective commitment to providing an enriching and supportive learning journey for every pupil at SK Bingkor and we express our appreciation to Taylor’s College for supporting the initiative that Velerie has brought to life for special needs pupils, and for sponsoring three smart TV sets for use during lessons in the therapy rooms,” Madalina said in a press release dated Jan 23.
The funding of this project comes at a time when there is an urgent need for a specialised learning facility to support special education needs in the state.
According to a 2017 Unicef report titled “Children Out of School: The Sabah Context”, Malaysia offers various education options for children with physical and learning disabilities but these facilities are primarily located in urban areas, presenting challenges for disabled children in rural areas to access schools.
Despite the existence of special education systems, not all children with disabilities receive necessary interventions or tailored learning due to factors such as inadequate infrastructure and limited access to assistive technology.
Learning facilities in Keningau, particularly for pupils with disabilities like autism and ADHD, are limited, said Velerie.
More than 65% of SK Bingkor’s special needs pupils fall into this demographic, he added.
For them, the learning journey is distinct, demanding the integration of play-based learning elements.
“This project serves as a dedicated support system, ensuring they receive guidance that goes beyond traditional classrooms, significantly enhancing their sensory abilities.
“Recognising the limitations of conventional teaching methods for these pupils, our initiative remains steadfast in unlocking their full potential.
“Through personalised guidance, the project aspires to create an educational experience that exceeds standard practices, empowering these children not only to succeed but to thrive in every aspect of their learning journey,” said Velerie.
Taylor’s College campus director Josephine Tan said education is the cornerstone of lifelong success.
“Projects like this serves as the catalyst for meaningful change – not just for the pupils and the school, but for the nation’s education ecosystem as well because it lays the foundation for a more empowered, knowledgeable and prosperous society. “The ‘Integrated Sensory Therapy Room and Snoezelen Project’ embodies our commitment to redefining education and fostering an inclusive, transformative learning environment,” she said, adding that the project aligns with Taylor’s mission to ensure quality and equitable access to education for all. “The project not only signifies a commitment to inclusivity but also embodies unwavering dedication to crafting an educational environment where every pupil, regardless of their unique needs, is poised to thrive, learn, and be empowered to achieve their utmost potential,” she added.
Taylor’s College will launch the fourth edition of RISE Educator Award on March 18 to recognise exceptional educators who contribute to the academic development and social well-being of their pupils.
