The Dungannon Swifts Charitable Trust was set up in February 2019. The aim of the trust primarily is to promote community development and community participation in healthy recreation especially in Dungannon and Mid Ulster. It will also foster good relations, equality, diversity and religious and racial harmony in the above locations. We will also be promoting other charitable purposes from time to time.
On the match night against Linfield (Friday 22nd March 7.45 pm KO) we will be undertaking a bucket collection on behalf of Sperrinview School, Dungannon.
Sperrinview School currently caters for 118 pupils with severe learning difficulties, from pre-school to 19 years. The pupils are drawn from South and East Tyrone. Sperrinview is a co-educational, inter-denominational, controlled, day school.
This purpose built school, located less than one mile from the centre of Dungannon, was first occupied in September 1996 and officially opened in September 1997. The school has several specialised rooms including one for each of the therapists, ie Speech and Language, Occupational and Physiotherapist. There is also a sensory garden, woodland classroom, tree trail and maths trails as well as recently upgraded specialised play areas [including a green gym], a multi sensory room, white room, soft play room and a library.
In addition the therapists [referred to above] have input, as per recommendations in pupils’ statements of special educational needs. A number of other people including the secretary, caretaker, groundsman, school meals staff, supervisory assistants, cleaners, bus escorts and drivers also make valuable contributions to school life.
Pupils are given opportunities to explore the wider community through environmental visits. Participation in events such as the local festival and feis, visits to theatres and involvement in events organised with/for other schools/colleges, provide opportunities to integrate. Work experience placements and careers education programmes, including visits to local industries, are further examples of community links.
We are delighted to that some staff and pupils from Sperrinview will be with us on the night. Please dig deep in your pockets for some loose change to help us support this worthy cause.
Martin Smith
Chairperson DSCT