Students with additional educational needs
All public education jurisdictions (i.e. state and territories) and sectors (i.e. early years, primary, secondary, etc.).
As an education support worker you may be required to work closely with students with specific educational needs. It is important that you become familiar with what is available for students.
You may find that you ‘specialise’ in one particular area in your career as an education support worker. There are specific professional development courses that you may be able to undertake throughout your career to give you a better understanding of these areas and enhance your professional skills.
Check your school/centres policies and procedures on students with additional educational needs.
You may be able to help run a Gifted and Talented programme or work with ESL (English as Second Language) adult students after class. These experiences may help you in your professional capacity as an education support worker.
Advisory Visiting Teachers
Advisory Visiting Teachers (AVTs) are teachers with specialist knowledge and skills, who support the educational programs of students with disabilities so that these students have enhanced opportunities to have quality educational outcomes.
AVTs play a key role in the delivery of quality education to students with disabilities. These students generally need an external assessment or ascertainment to receive this additional support. Students in this service area will also have specific educational plans that detail the adjustments required in their learning programs. Students are generally grouped for these additional services into the following groups:
- autistic spectrum disorder
- hearing impairment
- intellectual impairment
- physical impairment
- speech-language impairment
- vision impairment
Speech-Language Therapy Services
Speech-language therapy services are for students who have specific developmental delays in forming or using language. The services are provided through individual, group, class and home programs.
Services include direct therapy with individuals, groups and classes, consultancy to teachers and school staff, and advice to parents.
Speech-language pathologists work closely with teachers, in and out of the classroom, and are integral members of the education team. SThese support personnel also work closely with other support staff including learning difficulties support teachersand advisory visiting teachers for speech-language impairment.
Services are generally available to:
- children from birth to leaving school
- parents and families
- teachers and school personnel
- administrators
- other professionals.