Saturday 17th March 2018 marked the start of an exciting partnership between Taylor's International School Puchong (TIS Puchong) and The Inclusive Outdoor Classroom (IOC) - a voluntary organisation that provides inclusive activity sessions for children of all ages both with and without additional learning needs.

For the next six months TIS Puchong will be hosting IOC's monthly football sessions, which are led entirely by volunteers. The first session was a huge success, with children and parents all very excited to be able to use the TIS Puchong facilities. Until now they have met in public parks, which often do not have toilet facilities or sitting areas for spectators.

Mona Maria, mother to Ayril, a Year 2 TIS Puchong student with autism, welcomes the link between TIS Puchong and IOC, saying "TIS Puchong is a leading example in inclusiveness, from classroom education to opening its doors to organisations like the IOC, the school is being a true advocate for promoting inclusion. We are blessed to have been given the free usage of its disabled friendly facilities for our outdoor activities."

At this first IOC-TIS Puchong event, TIS Puchong's Primary Head of Curriculum Support, Rosie Greaves, gave a short speech thanking all the families and volunteers who dedicate their time to supporting children of all abilities. She said, "The IOC are the first truly inclusive organisation I have seen in Malaysia, and TIS Puchong recognise the need for this kind of program. I hope we can continue to build on this partnership in the coming months."

Anne Sivanathan, founder of the IOC, also thanked the volunteers, as well as TIS Puchong for allowing the IOC to use their facilities. In June the IOC will be showing their first documentary about their work at the TIS Puchong auditorium - ticket details will be released closer to the time.

The Inclusive Outdoor Classroom have worked with UNICEF, British Council, Petrosains and Ilham Gallery. If you would like further information, please visit their Facebook page.