Govt suggestion for specialised learning support role excites teachers

  • 23/09/2018
A teacher in front of students
Photo credit: Getty

Teachers have welcomed the Government's suggestion of a specialised learning support co-ordinator role.

Currently some schools do employ a version of the role, called a special needs coordinator (SENCO), but there is no central funding for them, the Otago Daily Times reports.

The suggestion to provide central funding is part of a draft Disability and Learning Support Action Plan released by Associate Education Minister Tracey Martin. The plan aims to provide solutions on integrating children with disabilities and learning disorders including dyslexia, dyspraxia and autism.

New Zealand Educational Institute (NZEI) president Lynda Stuart says they've been crying out for the role for a long time.

"Great to see that in there. We do need to see it being properly resourced, and we do need to see the training and the [TLD] that goes alongside it."

Ms Stuart told Newshub over time an existing assessment plan has become less consistent.

"Having this as a starting point is certainly something we're keen to be involved in the conversations around."

Overall though, she believes the plan is a good start.

"The Government are listening, and that's really important... We want this to happen as quickly as possible so that we can get the support for children."

Newshub.