Whittlesea School

Every week thirteen boys from the Sixth form go to the Leisure Centre to help some of the mentally handicapped children from the Whittlesea School to swim.

Since there is both a right and a wrong way of showing these boys and girls how to swim, those of us who opt to go (during general studies or first lessons on a Thursday) have to be willing to do so for the whole school year. Because of this and their other activities only a few of the Sixth Form can commit themselves to helping with swimming. But we ALL think of them, indeed when the swimming groups went to a Christmas party at the school, a collection among the two years concerned raised over £50 for them !

The age and abilities of the children vary, so does the form of handicap. As with all schools of this sort, there needs to be a lot of staff, and even with our help they have to be careful that nobody accidentally drowns.

The children usually have about an hour in the pool, which is ample, since by the end of this time we are exhausted and they, shivering. Although it is often hard work we all enjoy it because of the appreciation shown by the children and shared by the staff, particularly Miss Wilson, the P E teacher who runs these sessions.

Of course any one else who is interested in helping us is always welcomed.

Peter Loose L6A


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