Marists in Australia have supported LaValla School in Phnom Penh since its foundation in 1998. Many will remember that at that time the seven teachers were recruited from organisations that were engaged in craft and handiwork activities. The first part of the project was to give these teachers, who all suffer from a physical disability themselves, professional in-service teacher training. Each of the original teachers remain at LaValla School. They are the essence of the success of LaValla.

Over the years teachers have received ongoing professional development. This must be continued on a regular basis if the school is to maintain its vitality and be able to continue to offer ‘best practice’ education to the students. In many respects, LaValla is the leader in educational practice for students with disabilities in Cambodia.

 

A fund for the ongoing professional development of teachers and staff.

Opportunities exist in Cambodia for short courses and it is sometimes appropriate to bring in outside help to the school. It may also be judged worthwhile to sponsor teachers to attend international opportunities for professional development in disability education.

Contribute to a fund which will allow Br Terry, the leader of the LaValla project, some flexibility in organising professional development for the teachers. A budget of about $500 per year per teacher (total $3500) would be a good start.