Emotional time for Camerons as they visit former school of dead son Ivan

David Cameron spoke movingly about his son Ivan as he and his wife made an emotional visit to their child's former school.

Ivan, six, died last February. He was severely disabled and suffered from cerebral palsy and severe epilepsy.

The Prime Minister and his wife were at the Jack Tizard School in west London for the opening of a new hydrotherapy pool.

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Samantha Cameron looked emotional as her husband described how Ivan had loved swimming.

Ivan attended the special school in Hammersmith for around two years.

The Prime Minister added: "I remember how much he loved swimming and he will be looking down at that pool thinking I wish I was in there today."

Ivan required intensive round-the-clock care throughout his life.

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The Prime Minister has spoken in the past about the profound impact that caring for Ivan had upon him.

Jack Tizard is a day school for pupils aged two to 19, with severe learning difficulties.

Mr Cameron said that schools such as Jack Tizard played a hugely important role.

He explained: "Our special schools are incredible places.

"You have a child, a special child like we did with Ivan, you worry like mad you are never going to find somewhere where he is happy, where there is great teaching where there is love and great compassion.

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"And when you find that place like we did with Jack Tizard, your heart lifts."

Mrs Cameron, wearing a camel coat, clutched her husband's hand as they entered the school.

They toured the new pool and chatted to staff and pupils during an hour-long visit.

The couple also launched The Big Splash charity, of which Samantha Cameron is the patron.

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A spokesman for the charity, which aims to raise money for disabled children in the local community, said: "We're delighted to have Samantha and David's support in helping to raise much-needed funds."

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