No Us & Them .... Just Us

St Mary's Primary, Casino, hosted the organisation Autism Mates for a workshop as part of the schools 'No Us & Them…. Just Us' campaign.

St Mary’s Primary, Casino, had a week of engaging activities during their 'No Us & Them…. Just Us' celebration of difference. The week started with a workshop by the organisation Autism MATES led by Randa Habelrih and son Richard.

'If we just see the beauty in us all, then we don’t actively look for differences and are one in kinship with each other,' stated Principal John O’Brien. He added that Richard and Randa’s visit helped the students, staff and community see this in action. 'Welcoming all, not judging, treating everyone fairly and ensuring our kids feel they belong and are very much loved, is what St Mary’s Primary is about.'

Autism MATES works toward educating communities about autism and advocates for greater inclusion and acceptance in schools and the workforce. MATES is an acronym for Mates Assisting to Engage Socially.

Socialisation is often one of the biggest challenges for a student on the Autism Spectrum. But, in a supportive and inclusive environment based on acceptance and understanding, a student can experience success.

As one of his many talents, Richard performed a puppet show from an upcoming animation called 'Timmy the Turtle'. An animation that focuses on promoting a message of inclusion for primary schools. Richard's performance had the students of St Mary’s Primary eating out the palm of his hand. Kindergarten teacher Nicole Hammond said, 'Richard’s wicked sense of humour and love for playing ensured he was an absolute hit with our kids.'

While in Casino, Randa delivered a presentation as the Keynote speaker at a Casino community event. Randa shared her family's journey with Autism and the many obstacles her family faced along the way. Despite Richards poor prognosis, he has overcome these obstacles and lots of love, respect, understanding & great persistence.

#NoUsAndThemJustUs