CHILDREN from three Yorkshire specialist schools were recently delighted to welcome a VIP guest for a day of storytelling, music, and performance.
The children and young people from Park House School, Denby Grange School, and The Grange School – all part of Keys – welcomed Mama G, a well-known pantomime dame who tells stories, to children and their families, about being who you want and loving who you are.
The schools support pupils whose needs have not been met in mainstream environments and who may have social, emotional or mental health challenges, be autistic or be affected by attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) All of the children who attend the schools have an educational health care plan (EHCP).
Mama G has appeared on Britain’s Got Talent and regularly visits schools, libraries, museums, festivals, bookshops, and a host of other locations to read her stories about acceptance and self-love.
She spent the day at Park House School in Doncaster sharing stories and songs with the pupils.
Deputy Headteacher at the school Damien Cresswell said: “Schools across Keys are working towards the Rainbow Flag award with the Pride Trust and to make sure our schools are inclusive and welcoming places for everyone.
“Mama G is a great role model who tells stories that celebrate acceptance and loving who you are. She does this in a way that is age appropriate and in a way which was engaging for the young people we support. We held different sessions throughout the day for different age groups and kept the groups very small so it wasn’t overwhelming for anyone.
“For some, this was a completely new experience and they may have gone into the session with preconceived prejudices or ideas. However, they were all really engaged and one young person said it was ‘inspiring’ for them. Another had learned one of Mama G’s songs. They have been really buzzing about it since too!”
Mama G said: “I had a fabulous time at Park House School and meeting all of the pupils and staff. It was a really positive experience and we had really interesting conversations about treating people with respect.”
