Fiona
It has meant much to me to work as a volunteer at The Shine Centre. Working with children is always inspiring because of the energy they bring. Working within a professional framework set up by Maurita Weissenberg and her team is an exceptional experience; it's what makes the whole process work; it is an exciting project. Lastly, there is a well of love. This is really what fuels the work of The Shine Centre and it nourishes everyone involved and especially the children; there is a meaningful atmosphere in which children are truly cared for and in which they are encouraged to learn. This is the heart of it.
Leigh Anne
Approximately 3 years ago I read an article in our local Southern Suburbs newspaper -The Tatler, which featured Maurita Weissenberg and the work she was doing at Obs Junior School. She had created The Shine Centre within the school, which immediately caught my attention - who does not like to Shine in their lives - what a lovely name for a place of learning!! So I filed it and knew that as soon as my youngest child started High School I was going to get involved with this fabulous programme in assisting children who needed extra time and attention regarding their reading, spoken and written English, and school work in general. Initially Maurita targeted Grade 2 pupils but this has now increased to Grade 3 and 4 pupils as well.
From the time I walked into the school and was introduced to the two children I was assigned to work with - I was hooked!! I believe Maurita and her willing volunteers started off with not much other than donations of desks and equipment and she fund raised to be able to buy books and recourse, and over the years have transformed a few classrooms that the school made available to her, into these colourful, warm, happy, well equipped areas that are perfect to both teach and learn in.
It was obvious that the Head Mistress, Mrs. Naidoo, and her staff welcomed the extra assistance for the children who needed it, and the volunteers were all so committed, patient and loving to the children. Above all , I could not get over the joy it bought to a child who was chosen, to spend a few hours a week at the Shine Centre!!
I noticed their self esteem improve so quickly, the effectiveness of one on one teaching,and to have some other dependable adult to be able to chat to and share their lives with. It is all such a good recipe for a child's advancement and ability to want to learn!!
Maurita is really the Shining Star to have worked so hard to get to the stage - although she would say all the pupils are the ones that Shine!! And her more full time volunteers like Kathryn, Carrie, and Ginette have been so supportive and effective.
I feel incredibly privileged to be involved at the Shine Centre, and the joy of seeing my two pupils develop and progress over the last year and a half has been wonderful.
Lufefe and Zarah, who are now in Grade 3, proudly received their Certficates of progress on break-up day of the 2nd term. I will miss our special times together, but will look out for them in the corridors to give them a hug and continued encouragement!!
And then of course, I will start with some more young stars who will Shine!!
But there would be no Shine Centre without the volunteers, so I encourage anyone who can spare one or two hours a week during the school terms, to join in and enjoy the pleasure of helping the children of Observatory Junior School. It truly is addictive!!!! Leigh Anne Nathan
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