Based in Potchefstroom, Ria Renke School was established to meet the educational needs of neurodivergent children. Founder Ria Renke was inspired by her own journey as the mother of two children on the autism spectrum, which revealed a lack of learning environments tailored to different ways of learning.

“Teaching is tailored to each child’s individual learning needs and abilities. The school focuses on helping learners reach developmental milestones at their own pace, with teachers and assistants developing individual plans to support their progress.”

Not every child learns within the same timeframe or through the same methods, she added. One learner’s progress highlights the impact of the school’s individualised approach.

A four-year-old, who was diagnosed with autism, joined the school last year with challenges including low muscle tone, difficulty walking independently, limited communication, and difficulty interacting with others. He initially joined a group for learners requiring more support and received assistance with communication and motor development, including occupational therapy, said Renke.

He has since made progress in several areas. He can now walk independently, run, climb on playground equipment, interact with teachers and other learners, and express his needs more clearly. He has also started writing his name on a tablet and is potty trained. His family has also played a role in supporting his development.

Ria Renke, founder of Ria Renke School. Photo supplied

“He arrived with low muscle tone and unreliable speech, and struggled to express himself, make friends and engage with others. Today, he can write his name, communicate consistently, and make his needs understood,” said Renke.

Parents of neurodivergent children often face an emotionally difficult journey after receiving a diagnosis. Some experience isolation and a lack of understanding from family and friends, while everyday activities such as going to church, shopping, or taking holidays can become challenging.

Finding suitable educational support is another major obstacle. Parents face long waiting lists, high costs, and limited access to specialised services. Some schools also reject children because they struggle to accommodate their individual needs.

“Parents have to fight for their children, to be understood and to be accepted and to be given an opportunity.”

More investment in specialised education is needed in South Africa, along with better teacher training to help educators understand and support neurodivergent children and those with complex learning needs.

She also emphasised the importance of early identification and intervention, saying children should receive support as soon as learning challenges are identified. More schools should be equipped to accommodate children with additional learning needs.

“I dream that we must move forward towards an educational system where children are not left to fall through the cracks because they have individual and complex needs.”

OFM News/Siyakholwa Mbatyazwa

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