Jerome’s Story:

Jerome’s journey at Stepping Stone School is a testament to resilience, perseverance, and the transformative power of education.

As a teacher, witnessing his growth has been incredibly rewarding. Entering in 2023 after three years on a waiting list, Jerome, with Down syndrome and autism, faced
challenges mainstream schools in Namibia couldn’t address. Unable to secure a place due to age restrictions, he found hope at Stepping Stone School.
Despite Jerome’s untapped potential, Stepping Stone School became a new chapter. Dedicated staff, trained for unique needs, embraced him. In his first year, Jerome blossomed with a tailored curriculum, therapeutic interventions, and a supportive environment.

His warm nature endeared him to all. Progress became a testament to specialised education’s impact. Witnessing his newfound confidence and joy in learning brings immense joy.”

Lesheni’s Story:

Lesheni is an awesome young man, he is quiet and reserved but he is also very
fun to be around. We as a family are grateful to have him in our lives. We have struggled with others (whether neighbours or extended family) because some people don’t understand the nature of him being autistic.

Personally, neither did we in the beginning…but now we do. Unfortunately, our family does not have access to private medical care and therefore it has been a struggle at times to get Lesheni the right therapy. Especially because there is a general lack of Autism awareness and acceptance, especially in the health sector of Namibia.

It was incredibly difficult to help Lesheni get diagnosed with Autism and to get him the education and support that was fit for him.

We are all so grateful to the Stepping Stone team for giving him a chance at education. They have taught him so much already. Lesheni is still reserved, but also a bit more open. He is interacting well with others, truly being more fun, free and joyful. We’re glad he is at peace.

Stepping Stone School has given Lesheni a safe space to learn, develop and be himself without being scared of being different. Without Stepping Stone, we found it harder to connect with him and get him into the “right” school. The education and therapy from school have helped him to adjust better to society and his environment. We are eternally grateful for the sponsorships that have made it possible to attend Stepping Stone School.