PUPILS' SPECIAL NEEDS APPEAL

14 July 2005

Big-hearted pupils are putting the needs of their disabled classmates at the front of their fight to save their school. More than 1,000 pupils have signed a petition opposing plans to close Dylan Thomas Community School.

The axe is set to fall on the Cockett-based facility followed by a merger with Bishop Gore because Swansea Council says its numbers are falling.

But pupils say closing the school would cause major problems for disabled pupils who rely on the facilities at the school.

Dale Tracey, aged 13, of Gendros, said: "We have disabled children in our school but we don't see them as disabled, we see them as our friends. There's no way Bishop Gore could look after them as we do."

Wheelchair-bound Daniel Ford, aged 11, of Dunvant, said: "They should keep the school open, it's a lovely school and I can easily get around and play with my friends."

Ricky Stevenson, aged 13, of Port Tenant, agreed saying: "If we move to another school I will miss my friends and it may not be as easy for wheelchairs."

The determined pupils have handed the petition to council leaders.

Annette Johnson, assistant head teacher, said she was very proud of her pupils.

She said: "They feel very strongly about it closing and are very worried about it."We're very proud of them, they have been absolutely tremendous. It's citizenship in action and they are responding really well to the challenge."

Stephen Spencer, aged 13, of Gendros, said: "I really don't want the school to close. We are a good school. We may be small but we are friendly.

"My message to the council is don't close the school."