By Gabriella Payne
After a tough couple of years, the students and teachers at the Officer Specialist School were thrilled to host an extra special event recently – their inaugural Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) spelling bee!
Using an application on their iPads to assist them with communication, the amazing students who took part in the AAC spelling bee shone brightly on Friday 19 November as they wowed the audience with their impressive spelling skills.
Originally meant to be held in August (but postponed due to Covid), the spelling bee was a highly anticipated event and one that did not disappoint!
Deearne Padayachee, one of the school’s teachers and the organiser of the AAC spelling bee, said that it had been a fantastic day and it was amazing to see the students having fun in the friendly competition.
“Some of our incredible students were lucky enough to take part in the inaugural AAC spelling bee competition last Friday,” Ms Padayachee said.
“Students were given a list of words related to the Olympic Games and had to try to locate them independently on their AAC device,” she explained.
“There were 40 words that students had to locate on their communication device with no help from staff, such as gymnastics, win, stadium and Japanese food – and the students all did fantastically!
“Matilda Stephens received the bronze medal, Daniel O’Regan the silver medal and Bella Ray won the competition with 40 out of 40 words correct!
“Not only did the students increase their vocabulary, but they also got to celebrate how amazing and wonderful they are!”
Ms Padayachee said that to keep on track with the Olympic theme, the students were awarded their medals as the national anthem was played, and it was a very moving ceremony for all involved.
“There were a number of very proud staff members who teared up when the students stood on the podium to receive their medals as the national anthem was played,” she said.
“All students received a certificate to acknowledge all their hard work and should be incredibly proud of their achievements.”
Ms Padayachee said that it had been a great day for the school community, and everyone was already looking forward to the next AAC spelling bee.
