Highest Level of Mainstream Education Attained by High-functioning Intellectually-disabled Children

Ms Rahayu Mahzam asked the Minister for Education (Schools) (a) to date, what is the highest level of mainstream education attained by high-functioning intellectually disabled children; and (b) what is the support given to assist high-functioning intellectually disabled children to remain in mainstream schools.

"High-functioning intellectually disabled" children would be referring to those with mild intellectual disability. Students with intellectual disability usually show significant limitations in cognitive and daily living skills, as expressed in conceptual, social and practical adaptive functions. They may also have emotional and motivational problems arising from persistent difficulties in learning.

Typically, the needs of students with intellectual disability are best served in the Special Education (SPED) schools as they have customised programmes where these students are taught by specially trained teachers who can cater to their specific learning needs and supported by allied professionals, such as allied health, paramedical, social and psychological support and post-school transition support.

These schools also offer a customised curriculum with a vocational education programme to equip students with independent living and workplace readiness skills. Some of these students eventually attain vocational certification and/or progress to the Institute of Technical Education (ITE).

There are two SPED schools offering vocational certification programmes for students with mild intellectual disability – APSN Delta Senior School and Metta School which offer the Workforce Skills Qualifications and the ITE Skills Certificate, respectively. Generally, the students are able to be gainfully employed upon obtaining their vocational certification.