The Western Cape Education Department's (WCED) focus in its 2007-2008 Strengthening of Special Schools Programme is the enabling of these special schools to function as resource centres that provide curriculum support to mainstream schools.

So said Western Cape Education MEC Cameron Dugmore today (Wednesday 24 October) in his keynote address to a workshop hosted by the SA National Association for Special Education (SANASE), and attended by principals of special needs schools and officials from the department's head and district offices.

Said MEC Dugmore: "The WCED Directorate: Specialised Education Support Services has received almost R1-million from the national Department of Education to be used specifically for this purpose.

"Workshops are being held for all special schools, including teachers from units at primary schools. Schools are grouped for workshops according to types of disability, specialisation and band.

"Many questions about curriculum in special schools have been asked at these workshops, and some of them still need to be answered. These questions have been communicated to the national Department.

"However, the outcomes to be achieved through this Special Schools' Strengthening Project are the following:

• Special school principals are equipped to manage the National Curriculum Statement in their schools.
• Special school teachers are equipped to implement the National Curriculum Statement in their classrooms and to assist colleagues in mainstream schools with curriculum implementation for learners experiencing barriers to learning.
• Curriculum officials gain insight into the particular challenges faced by teachers and learners in special schools.
• Suggestions for adaptations of teaching methodology and assessment are compiled in order to contribute to the national process.
• Special school staffs have an opportunity to network with one another and with WCED curriculum officials to strengthen support mechanisms."

For enquiries, contact Gert Witbooi:  082 550 3938, or gwitbooi@pgwc.gov.za.

Visit our website: http://wced.wcape.gov.za

The Western Cape - A Home for All
INtshona Koloni - iKhaya loMntu wonke
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