SCHOOL NEWS - Carpe Diem officially opened a beautiful sensory garden for learners of the school on Wednesday morning, 9 September.
The school physiotherapist, Marali Olën, said that while it is designed to benefit every learner, the garden offers particular support to children with sensory processing needs, including learners on the autism spectrum.
“It is a place where learners can explore, discover, learn, grow and regulate through their senses,” she said. “These sensory experiences can support learning, development and sensory regulation, while also providing a calming and enjoyable outdoor space.”
The garden was designed and established by a former teacher of children on the autism spectrum at the school, Marié Ramage, and her husband, David, owners of BGreen, with input from Olën.
It features edible and aromatic plants, a variety of textured walking surfaces, a small fountain and flowing water, as well as carefully designed features that invite learners to touch, smell, listen, move, interact and explore.
Olën said generous sponsorships, including support from the Els for Autism South Africa Foundation, made the project possible.
David Ramage said it was quite a challenging process to source materials and design the various sections of the garden from scratch. “Fortunately, if ever we want to do another one, we know it will be easier.”
A few learners who attended the opening to “test” the garden, overcame their initial shyness and were soon captivated by the various activities and features.
Learners spontaneously started watering the plants.
Carpe Diem principal Elzeth Grobler said the garden has been a dream of hers since the day she was appointed to the school.
She thanked Chanel Baumgarten, manager of the Ernie Els Centre for Autism in South Africa, who attended the opening, and the Els family for their support.
The foundation also provided a training programme for teachers of the school who work with children on the autism spectrum. The number of these children attending the school has grown over the years and today they make up 12 classes, two of which are based in Knysna.
Olën said the garden reflects the heart of Carpe Diem School. “It recognises that every learner is unique, that every learner experiences the world differently, and that every learner deserves opportunities to participate, explore and grow.”
Marali Olën (left) with Marié and David Ramage.
Intrigued by one of the features.
All the plants and flowers are aromatic and edible.
A wall with interesting features that can involve various senses.
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