The PSA Special Education Working Group (SEWG) had its quarterly meeting on Monday 22 August 2022.
The committee meets to discuss matters affecting School Learning Support Officers (SLSO) working in all streams, including Student Health Support, and reports these through the Schools Departmental Committee for discussion with the Department of Education (DoE).
Violence in schools
The SEWG is extremely concerned about the increase in workplace violence in schools. Members have reported to the PSA that they were unaware of their correct reporting procedures and how and what to report.
All staff have an obligation to report incidents. An incident is an event that creates danger or risk that could significantly affect the health, safety and wellbeing of individuals and cause major disruption, and impact on the effective operation of workplaces. These may include but not be limited to; spitting, hitting, kicking and near misses. The Department requires that employees report as soon as possible.
It is also imperative that psychological incidents are reported as they can have a detrimental effect on your wellbeing.
Incident Report and Support Hotline -1800 811 523 Monday-Friday 8am-5pm.
Travel training
SLSOs cannot be directed or asked to ‘travel train’ students without a teacher being present. The SLSO ‘statement of duties clearly states, “under the direction and supervision of a teacher”.
You are not required to supervise students on your own.
Regardless of the activity, a teacher must be always in sight and/or hearing distance. Assisting and supporting students to develop independent living and pre-vocational skills including through travel training, transition, excursions, and work experience programs should always be under the supervision of a teacher.
Toileting of students
The SEWG would also like to remind members that when regularly assisting students with toileting there should be two people present and the role of the SLSO should be clearly outlined as part of the health plan. If members are concerned or require specific information in relation to their school setting, please contact the PSA.
Training and development
Training and development activities should be undertaken during working hours, this includes mandatory department training. Where training is conducted outside of working hours SLSO’s are eligible to be paid additional hours, overtime or negotiated time in lieu.