Happy performers promote inclusion

The Schools Alive Choir, made up of six education support centres and one special needs school across Peel and Rockingham, has been a great opportunity for all ages and abilities to come together and express themselves in an out-of-the-classroom creative environment, Koorana Education Support Centre EA Cheryl Mawditt said.

Ms Mawditt said the students loved having the opportunity to perform and dance for audiences and to bring joy to the community as a whole.

Choir master Ben New said the students, who were hand-picked from Rockingham Beach, Koorana, Leda, Endeavour, Meadow Springs and Riverside education support centres and Malibu School, were enthusiastic and energetic in their approach to performing.

Mr New said the choir had helped the students with their confidence, and that when they had first joined they were nervous or shy but it didn’t take long to make friends and feel welcome.

Performing at the Fun on the Foreshore event in Mandurah last Friday which was proudly supported by the Disability Services Commission, the choir took the opportunity to shine in their mixed medley of popular music and Christmas carols.

The students had decorated little hands and placed them in the ground in representation of the symbol for International Day of People with Disability which was on Tuesday of last week.

Disability Services Commission area co-ordinator Steph Backhouse said the hands represented the inclusion of all with disabilities and increased community awareness for previously segregated members of society.

Ms Backhouse said it was about recognising their achievements and contributions, despite any limitations.