Dorton House School |
Established in 1838, The Royal London Society for the Blind has been looking after the needs of visually impaired people for over 170 years. It began as the "London Society for Teaching the Blind to Read", subsequently introducing Braille from France. Over the years its role has changed and it has grown dramatically to become the modern organisation it is today.
The RLSB's Dorton House School is located in Seal, near Sevenoaks, Kent. Its approach to learning includes adapted teaching technologies, mobility training and therapies. The school specialises in teaching children whose Statement of Special Educational Needs indicates that a placement in a specialist school for children who are visually impaired is appropriate. Children are encouraged to develop not only the necessary academic skills but also skills for independent living to empower them to live within a sighted world. The annual Summer School also offers pupils a rich variety of experiences and challenges to help them grow in confidence and social skills.
Dorton House School's entrance hall |
Austrian Social Servants at Dorton House School are expected to support the staff as assistant teachers in and outside classes, which not only includes academic support but also playground duty, help in the mobility training as well as assistance in therapies. Furthermore, the Austrians are welcome to join the staff on the school’s several excursions, where additional help is always needed. In August, Social Servants work at the annual Summer School, which is mainly based on outdoor activities, necessary for the children to gain confidence in the outside world. With their work, Austrian Social Servants not only represent their home country in a unique way, but also contribute an important part to the success and welfare of the many students.
For me there are several reasons for doing my Social Service at the Dorton House School. One of the most important aspects is that I want to spend my time in a sensible way and not just to waste it. In this manner I want to set a small milestone for the amelioration of the life situation of disadvantaged people, especially children. I have just completed my school leaving examination and I am interested in other cultures, other countries and other languages. This year at the Dorton House School is a really great chance to broaden my horizon and to reinforce my social competences. Having been given this opportunity, I really want to thank the members of the Austrian Service Abroad for having assisted me during my period of preparation.