Portlaoise Educate Together NS celebrated World Autism Awareness Day on Friday 31st March by encouraging all children and staff to wear blue in honour of those on the autistic spectrum (ASD).
Blue is the colour for autism and it is celebrated world-wide on Sunday the 2nd of April to create awareness of autism throughout the world.
Portlaoise Educate Together N.S. have the only purpose built autism unit (Le Cheile) in Portlaoise town.
Every child wore blue on Friday and the 6th Class students visited the Le Cheile unit on Thursday afternoon and learned all about autism by visiting the OT Room, kitchen and the Sensory Room and even got to play with some of the children in the unit.
The organisers said the students had first hand experience and had a great time in Le Cheile unit.
“The school is very passionate about WAAD World Autism Awareness Day and our day of celebration highlighted huge awareness in the school on Friday last. The school wishes to thank all the children and staff for making it a most enjoyable day,” said Pam Grogan.
Ongoing fundraising is needed for Le Cheile and the school is hosting a gala ball on the 17th June in the Killeshin Hotel with a three-course meal and entertainment provided by Transmitter. Tickets are €45 each or two for €80.
The school would like to invite everyone in the community to attend to help raise much needed funds. Call the school office on 057 8664823 for ticket information.
