Listening to Families Videos

Tracy Rohan (Principal Advisor – Learning Support Canterbury) suggests who to talk to when a family has concerns about their child. She notes the role that the Ministry has and suggests that families call the Service Manager for their area. Tracy explains that’s a diagnosis is not required to get support.

Tracy Rohan (Principal Advisor – Learning Support Canterbury) explains that there is not a one size fits all for transition. She notes that good transitions start early, the importance of collaborative planning and that schools should be ready for the student. She talks about family initiated plans.

Tracy Rohan (Principal Advisor – Learning Support Canterbury) talks about the Ministry’s key role in removing the barriers to attendance. She also talks about barriers that sit in the community and the Ministry’s role in helping families to navigate the range of services and options.

Tracy Rohan (Principal Advisor – Learning Support Canterbury) explains what an IEP is and who is involved in the development of the plan. She notes that the plan may have multiple names – variations on a theme and discusses what is included in the plan. She explains how to get an IEP.

Tracy Rohan (Principal Advisor – Learning Support Canterbury) explains what an IEP is and who is involved in the development of the plan. She notes that the plan may have multiple names – variations on a theme and discusses what is included in the plan. She explains how to get an IEP.and the Ministry’s role in supporting the process.

Rachel Vink (Chief Advisor - Learning Support National) explains how the Ministry supports teachers. She talks about a specialist training program available to 300 teachers, partnering with organisations like Autism NZ (incl Tilting the Seesaw), and the role of RTLB and others with individual teachers. She also notes the Inclusive Education website that has information for teachers.

Rachel Vink (Chief Advisor - Learning Support National) confirms that every child has the right to be at school and notes the role of the Ministry to realise this. She talks about involving the school and Ministry in relation to availability of a Teacher Aide. She also discusses the involvement of others ie SENCO, RTLB.

Rachel Vink (Chief Advisor - Learning Support National) encourages a discussion about what the worries might be about partcipating in activities - schools perspective and families’ perspective. Having clear and open communication channels. If things get stuck involving the Ministry.

Rachel Vink (Chief Advisor - Learning Support National) notes that families and schools should reach out to the local Ministry if they have concerns about the level of support required for a student. She explains what the schools obligations are if the Teacher Aide is sick. She notes the importance of planning.

Rachel Vink (Chief Advisor - Learning Support National) explains that ORS (Ongoing Resourcing Scheme) is available to some children with high needs. She notes the collaborative process that is followed. She confirms that all of the information for an application is available on the Ministry’s website.

Rachel Vink (Chief Advisor - Learning Support National) notes that the Ministry has a set of guidelines that help parents and Boards of Trustees. The guidelines are on the Ministry’s website.

Helen Wagstaff (Autism Coordinator) asks Rachel Vink (Chief Advisor - Learning Support National) Tracy Rohan (Principal Advisor – Learning Support Canterbury) what their key messages are for families. Tracy notes that the Ministry wants to hear from families – when things are going well and when they are not. Rachel agrees with Tracy’s comments – confirms the importance of reaching out.