Measures to Prepare and Assist Teachers at ITE to Support Students with Special Needs

Mr Don Wee asked the Minister for Education what measures are there to prepare and assist teachers at the Institute of Technical Education so that they can support students with special needs, such as dyslexia, autism and Down Syndrome.

MOE and the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) are committed to providing a strong system of support for all students, including students with Special Educational Needs (SEN).

ITE educators receive training on the fundamentals of SEN conditions and strategies to engage and teach students with SEN effectively. Educators, including those who work more closely with students with SEN, may also undergo additional training on advanced strategies for learning interventions and behaviour management.

Each of the three ITE Colleges has a Learning Accessibility Office (LAO) comprising Educational Psychologists, Learning Support Specialists, Learning Support Officers and other specialised staff. The LAOs work directly with students with SEN and provide advice to educators on how to effectively support students with SEN, develop intervention plans and monitor students who require closer support. We encourage students with SEN to approach the LAO at their respective ITE College for assistance and support as necessary.