ENHANCED SUPPORT FOR SPECIAL NEEDS STUDENTS IN MAINSTREAM SCHOOLS

MOE seeks to provide an inclusive education system, so as to cater to children with different learning needs. As children with mild or moderate learning disabilities are able to access the mainstream curriculum with some support, and can study in mainstream schools, MOE will provide additional support and resources.

To integrate such children into mainstream schools, MOE will recruit and provide dedicated staff with training in special education to some mainstream schools.

Special Needs Officers have been provided to 14 schools in 2005 to help students with mild to moderate Dyslexia and Autistic Spectrum Disorder. These primary and secondary schools were selected based on the criteria of the level of need in the school, their having a positive school ethos, and a strong philosophy of care and support for the diverse needs of their students.

Training in special needs will also be provided for selected mainstream teachers to raise general awareness of the different types of learning difficulties, and help them identify and manage children with mild learning difficulties.

As early detection, appropriate intervention and support can help these children achieve successful outcomes in school and in life, these staff will enhance current intervention and support programmes in schools.

These initiatives were phased in from 2005. They are in addition to plans to increase funding for Special Education schools to improve the quality of professional resources; build an additional school for autistic children; and accelerate the redevelopment of nine Special Education schools by 2008.

Training Staff