Parliamentary Replies
Recruitment and Retention of AEDs
Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament
Mrs Josephine Teo, Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC
Question
To ask the Minister for Education (a) if he will provide an update on the recruitment and retention of Allied Educators in the last one year; and (b) whether new strategies are being considered in the light of the tightening job market.
Response
Since the inception of the Allied Educators Scheme (AES) in 2009, MOE has tripled the pool of Allied Educators (AEDs), from 574 officers in Jan 2009 to 1,722 officers as at 31 May 2010. The total number of AEDs is projected to grow to about 2,800 by the end of 2015. Compared to public sector norms, the resignation rate of AEDs is relatively low, at less than 4%. To attract good candidates to join the AES and to retain them, the remuneration package of AEDs is reviewed annually and takes into consideration market salary levels. MOE will also continue to refine our selection process to recruit quality AEDs with the right aptitude and attitude.
In Aug 2009, MOE launched a competency-based appraisal framework for AEDs. Based on inputs from school leaders, teachers as well as AEDs, the appraisal framework provides clarity on AEDs’ job responsibilities, and helps AEDs to better understand their individual strengths and development needs.
MOE also conducted a post-implementation review of the AES towards the end of 2009, where the relevant stakeholders were consulted to gather feedback on the Scheme. Based on our findings, the AES is generally well-received. Schools appreciate the additional manpower support provided by AEDs, while AEDs appreciate the opportunity to work with students. As the AES is a relatively new scheme, MOE will continue to look into the needs and well-being of the AEDs to see how MOE can better support them in their work.