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Special Education Staffing

08 November 2004

Dr Refshauge has announced changes to the staffing of Special Education Schools and Classes.

1. On Wednesday 18 August 2004 the Minister, Dr Refshauge announced changes to the staffing of Special Education Schools and Classes. The announcement includes the employment of an additional 660 Teachers Aides (Special) over three years (2005-2007) at a cost of an additional $15.6 million.

The announcement indicates that all Special Classes (including SSPs) will be allocated a Teachers Aide (Special) by 2007.

The Government's decision to fund part of this initiative by reducing the total number of classes and therefore teachers, is opposed by the Federation. This opposition was stated in the Federation journal Education on 30 August, 2004 and has been restated formally to both the DET and Government.

The exact magnitude and location of these losses are as yet unknown.

2. The announcement indicates that:

(i) In 2005 all E.D. , B.D. and Autism classes will be allocated a Teacher Aide (special). It further indicates that ED, BD and Autism classes need not exceed seven students.

(ii) In 2006 all IM, IO, Physical and Hearing Impairment classes in regular schools would be allocated a Teachers Aide (Special). It further indicates that IO classes and classes for Physical and Hearing Impairment need not exceed 10, 8, and 9 students respectively.

(iii) In 2007 all Special classes, including in SSPs will be allocated a Teachers Aide (Special). While not explicitly stated the Federation believes that IO classes in SSPs need not exceed 10. IM and IS ratios will remain unchanged.

3. The Federation has been attempting to:

a) get precise information concerning the impact of these changes both state-wide and locally;

b) prevent the loss of classes/teaching positions;

c) ensure the rights of members are protected.

At this time the DET has not provided any specific information concerning the exact number and location of any proposed loss of classes/positions.

Action

Schools to be affected by these changes should express their concerns to The Premier, The Minister and their local State Member of Parliament. Parents should be informed and involved in talking to local Members of Parliament. Letters to the above can be addressed to Parliament House, Sydney.

School staffs are authorised to take industrial or other appropriate action particularly when the Health and Safety of staff or students is at risk.

Yours sincerely,

Barry Johnson
General Secretary

For further information

Contact	:	NSW Teachers Federation
Phone	:	02 9217 2100
Fax	:	02 9217 2470
Email	:	mail@nswtf.org.au
WWW	:	http://www.nswtf.org.au

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