Train4ALN is committed to improving the education and care of children with additional learning needs in Lesotho, Africa. Children with disabilities and other learning difficulties in this region often face significant barriers due to poverty as well as limited access to specialised education, resources, and support. We aim to bridge this gap by working closely with local schools, communities, and families providing training and utilising the resources available in the village to ensure that these children receive the education, care, and attention they deserve.
We believe that every child, regardless of ability, should have the opportunity to thrive.
Our approach combines long-term support with hands-on engagement to ensure sustainable progress in both the learning environments and the children's development.
We supply schools and educational centres in Lesotho with vital learning materials, including books, sensory tools, and assistive devices that cater to children with diverse needs. These resources are specifically chosen to enhance the learning experiences of children with conditions such as autism, ADHD, Down syndrome, and physical disabilities. We also provide funding and materials to create accessible spaces within schools, making the learning environment more inclusive and supportive.
A crucial part of our mission is working with the education department in Maesuru to support the ongoing training and development of local teachers. Many educators in Lesotho have received limited training on how to support children with additional learning needs, which can result in children being excluded or misunderstood in traditional classrooms. We offer specialized training programs that focus on effective teaching strategies for children with learning difficulties, behavior management, sensory integration, and communication techniques for non-verbal students. By working with our partners in Lesotho and Dolen Cymru, empowering teachers with these skills, we aim to help build local capacity and ensure that children with special needs receive appropriate and compassionate care throughout their education.
We understand that education and care extend beyond the classroom. That’s why we also work with families and communities, helping them understand the unique needs of their children and equipping them with strategies to provide ongoing support at home. Through workshops and community outreach, we raise awareness about disabilities, reduce stigma, and promote inclusion.
Several times a year, our team travels to Lesotho to spend time with the children we support. These visits are a vital part of our mission, allowing us to build personal connections with the children, assess their progress, and directly engage in their development. During these trips, we organise a wide range of activities tailored to the children’s individual needs:
These activities are particularly beneficial for children with sensory processing disorders or physical impairments, helping them develop coordination, balance, and strength in a fun, supportive environment. Creative and Play-Based Learning: We incorporate art, music, and play into our sessions, which helps to develop communication and social skills. For non-verbal children, these creative outlets allow them to express themselves in non-traditional ways, building confidence and reducing frustration.
Emotional and Social Development: Through structured group activities, we create opportunities for children to interact with their peers, encouraging cooperation, turn-taking, and teamwork. Many children with additional needs struggle with social interactions, and these activities provide a safe space to develop critical social skills.
Tailored Educational Support: During our visits, we work one-on-one with the children, providing personalized educational support. Whether it’s helping a child with reading difficulties, practicing basic math, or using communication aids for non-verbal students, we adapt our activities to meet the specific needs of each child.
Our work in Lesotho is not limited to our visits. We maintain regular communication with the schools and families we support, monitoring the children’s progress and offering guidance remotely.
Ultimately, our goal is to support and foster sustainable change within the educational system in Lesotho, creating an inclusive environment where children with additional learning needs can flourish. By collaboratively addressing both the immediate and long-term needs of these children, we aim to give them the tools and support they need to achieve their full potential.
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