Two United Kingdom charitable organisations provided financial contributions to the Challenor Creative Arts and Training Centre after opting to reallocate the funds. The original donation of BDS $5k was chosen for a building project. It was during a recent visit to CCATC in Barbados, in my role as executive Public Relations Officer for the National Council of Barbadian Associations UK and as the Director of BooksNTingsz, that I became aware of a transportation issue.
On the day, thirty students were present out of a total of seventy-eight. Due to a lack of transportation, an important part of the Centre’s operations is affected, as the majority of students are collected and transported. Over the last fortnight, the three buses have been out of service due to mechanical failures, and spare parts were unavailable on the island.
Acting on behalf of my colleagues, it was decided that the donation intended for the building project can be used to help with the transport situation. Administrator Marcia Braithwaite said that at the time, her focus was on getting these buses back on the road so the school could be fully operational again, as transportation is integral to the school’s operations. As children are collected from at least eight parishes, with the Northern sector considered to be far
Last year, during the recent Independence lecture in London, Dr Donna-Marie Holder, a specialist in Autism, referred to the school as a global leader in dealing with Black Children and Autism. It was considered unique in this aspect.
On the tour, I was accompanied by Headteacher Sonia Pile, Assistant Head Tonia Burgess, and Administrator Marcia Braithwate. The team explained to me the work CCATC is doing in arts, crafts, technology, and culinary arts.
There are several institutions in Barbados that serve students with special needs; however, the Challenor Creative Arts and Training Centre is unique on the island in that it accommodates individuals aged 5 to 50. There is a common misconception that persons with disabilities are not able to be productive and creative, but I can safely say that this is simply not the case.
Located in Canefield St Thomas, in a mansion that was donated by the Williams family and adapted for its present use. It’s a beautiful place with picturesque surroundings
CCATC has two divisions: a primary- and secondary-level division for students aged five to eighteen, and an adult training facility for individuals aged eighteen to fifty. Some who live onsite. The primary and secondary sections consist of seven classrooms staffed by seven teachers, each supported by an assistant, while the adult facility is staffed by four teachers and four assistants.
Admission is open to individuals with physical or intellectual disabilities within the specified age range, including those who are blind, hearing impaired, or autistic. Instruction at the school is tailored to meet each student’s specific needs and abilities through individualised educational plans. Teachers provide the necessary support and attention as outlined in these plans.
On a somewhat emotional tour, I was able to see most of the students, and I remember students in the Kitchen preparing the day’s food; incidentally, I received two lovely cakes along with a glass of Sorrell, all prepared on site.
Speaking to the autistic students, one aspired to emulate PM Mia and become PM of Barbados, and another was a very witty young man who promised to be one of the best Chefs in Barbados. Teachers and assistants who are passionate and dedicated to their students, offering very personal care. It was harrowing seeing so many children with many disabilities in one space.
At the end, I met an upbeat social worker who told me that she and other members of the leadership team are constantly on call. Standing by to help parents and guardians in moments of crisis.
This experience made me realise that CCATC constantly needs your help, and I urge Barbadians everywhere to continue supporting this wonderful institution.
Three weeks later, the problem with the buses continues to hinder the school’s operations
