Supporting ākonga with foetal alcohol spectrum disorder

Why this course is relevant for teacher aides

Foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is a neurodiverse condition thought to be significantly under diagnosed world wide. The numbers of young people diagnosed with FASD continue to increase. There is no cure, hence the condition is lifelong.

We will discuss the characteristics of FASD and factors in the classroom and in the playground that can affect the behaviour. We will then talk about useful, easy-to-implement practical strategies that will help you to manage challenging behaviour.

What to expect

This is a self-directed online course. You work through it at your own pace.

The online course takes you through the key things you need to know about supporting ākonga with foetal alcohol spectrum disorder. You will learn about foetal alcohol spectrum disorder and practical strategies you can use as a teacher aide.

You will be supported by your facilitator as you work through the online course. They will give you feedback on discussions and can answer any questions.

Learning outcomes

You will:

• learn an understanding of foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) and its associated terms

• become aware of the physical and behavioural characteristics of FASD

• develop strategies to support ākonga with FASD in inclusive classroom settings

• contribute to a discussion on environmental factors that may have a negative impact on ākonga with FASD

• develop a kete of practical strategies for supporting ākonga with FASD including Top 10 Tips

• practise teamwork and collaborative partnership skills, when working with whānau and agencies

• develop knowledge of the skills required when working in culturally appropriate ways with whānau who have tamariki with FASD

Who this course is for

This course is suitable for grade A, B, C, or D teacher aides.

How this course is delivered

This is an online course.

How this course aligns to the Teacher Aide Competencies

This course connects to these competencies:

• neurodiversity

• behaviour

• inclusion

• wellbeing

• learning support

• cultural competence

• professional skills

How much time to complete this course

This course will take you about two hours to complete. You can work at your own pace. You have one school term to complete this course.

Your investment

This workshop costs $200 + GST per participant.

Teacher aides who have applied for funding from the Ministry of Education. Please note you will NOT be able to enrol unless you have received your teacher aides' application reference number (ARN). This number is needed to register for this course.

For information on the process of applying for Ministry funding and to access the full terms and conditions, including details on possible travel costs, please visit the Ministry of Education’s website.

Easy to follow application process

Click on the image below to see the easy to follow Teacher aide MOE PLD application process.

Teacher aide MOE PLD application process