Hino Australia, in partnership with Schools Plus, has recently donated a range of sensory equipment for a new dedicated sensory room to the Bates Drive School in Sydney.
“The new room gives us more variety of opportunity when using students’ senses to help them deal with past trauma,” said David Toogood, Principal of Bates Drive School.
“It will enable us to do more of our vital one-on-one work with students, and support us in helping families with access to therapists and other resources.”
Located in Sutherland Shire, Bates Drive School specialises in working with students ranging from Kindergarten to Year 12 “who experience significant challenges in managing their emotions, have physical or intellectual disabilities, autism or mental health challenges.”
Hino Australia has had a strong focus within the Sutherland Shire since opening its headquarters at Caringbah in 1995.
“We are pleased to support not only Bates Drive School but also an additional three schools including Minerva School, Cook School and Dunlea School as part of our Schools Plus partnership,” said Sam Suda, President and CEO of Hino Australia.
“This is an opportunity to make a difference within the local community and support these students in reaching their full potential,” he continued.
The Schools Plus project began in 2017 with Toyota, a Hino-affiliated company, funding a number of projects including alternate seating and sensory tools to improve the learning and playground environment at Bates Drive School.
“Working with business donors like Toyota and Hino gives us extra options in supporting our students,” said Mr Toogood.
“The previous project greatly benefitted our students, so we’re excited to see how the next phase of this project progresses,” he said.
