Introducing our Oar-some Maths Mission participants!
Alongside our six incredible teams of racers attending the Oarsome Maths Mission this July, we have a few fantastic members of the SEND community. Learn more about them in this blog, to understand who we support here at Learn and Thrive.
Sam
Answered by Sam’s Mum, Kirsty.
How old are you?
Sam will be 15 at the end of June - he’s celebrating with a karaoke party and will be singing to Abba, Whitney Houston and the Eurthymics!
What makes you want to take part in the race?
We like to try different things as a family and give Sam lots of experiences. Plus Mum is currently working as an LSA and has seen first hand how having the right resources really makes a difference with SEN learners.
How has Learn and Thrive supported you?
We’re looking forward to using Learning for Life more as Sam progresses to college - we’re lucky that he has some great pre-existing provision at school!
What would you say to people who want to support or take part?
All children have a right to education- some need more help or different ways of doing things Learn and Thrive does what it “says on the tin”. And if you like boats and laughing, what are you waiting for? Just sign up!
Bethan
Answered by Bethan’s mum, Jo
How old are you?
15 (nearly 16 as she regularly reminds us!)
What makes you want to take part in the race?
She loves to be part of a team and get involved. She loves being on the water after years of scouting and hitting the kayaks. She wants to do what her brothers can do.
How has Learn and Thrive supported you?
Bethan has really benefitted form Growing Up and Keeping Safe , as well as the Changing Adolescent Body. Saying that, her actual favourite is the How To... Be Healthy dance videos.
What would you say to people who want to support/take part?
You probably know us – Jo, Las, Ashwin, Dylan, and, of course, our amazing girl Bethan. Yep, she's the one with Down's syndrome, and while that's a big part of who she is, there's so much more to her story. Sure, you see her smile, her laughter, and that spark in her eyes, but what you might not know are the challenges she faces behind the scenes. And that's why we're not just doing this race for fun – although it's definitely gonna be a blast. We're doing it to shine a light on those hidden challenges, to let people know that even though Bethan's journey might seem smooth on the surface, there are rough waters to navigate.
“We need your support, whether it’s cheering us on from the sidelines or chipping in a few bucks to help us reach our fundraising goal. Because when we paddle, we’re not just moving a boat – we’re making waves of change.”
Aimee
Answered by her dad, Derick
How old are you?
She is 13, and is currently at mainstream school
What makes you want to take part in the race?
Aimee always stays active, and as her parents, we know it's so important for individuals with Down's syndrome to be active in a range of ways to keep fit and healthy. Not only that, but she tries out many different sports, including netball, cricket, hockey, athletics, and swimming - which she is amazing at and competes at high level.
How has Learn and Thrive supported you?
School has been signposted to Learn and Thrive's Learning for Life project, which has been supporting Aimee, particularly in understanding emotions, puberty, and more.
Zac
Answered by Zac’s mum, Isabel
How old are you?
12, but 13 just after the Oarsome Maths Mission!
What makes you want to take part in the race?
Zac enjoys the water and as a family we really wanted to support a charity that has supported Zac. When we saw this we thought it was perfect as we as a family enjoy Kayaking & Paddle Boarding and we could also get our wider family and friends involved too.
How has Learn and Thrive supported you?
All the resources available through Learn and Thrive are delivered in a way that breaks the subject down to an easy to understand way. This has allowed us to approach subjects with Zac that can be difficult for him to grasp and difficult to explain like emotions & adolescent body changes. It’s great how we can watch a video but also print the resources so theres lots of visual support. We've also had his school use the resources too.
What would you say to people who want to support/take part?
It’s a great way to get together with family & friends, have fun and to raise money for a great charity.
Freya
Answered by Freya’s stepdad, Dan
How old are you?
Freya is 14 and loves playing tennis, having a singalong in the car and anything Ghostbusters.
What makes you want to take part in the race?
She's taking part in this mission to beat Dan at paddling so that she can be the queen bee around the house (as if she isn't already) and also to support Learn and Thrive to produce the learning materials that she loves using.
How has Learn and Thrive supported you?
Freya's favourite materials are the being healthy modules as she loves being able to make health meals independently.
What would you say to people who want to support/take part?
If you're thinking about donating to Freya, just think about all the mint chocolate she could buy with the money. Shame it's all going to charity instead. At least her and her friends will get some awesome news learning materials out of it.
We are privileged to have received sponsorship for this event. Click on each sponsor logo below to visit their website and learn more about them.
