The Resource Teachers: Learning and Behaviour (RTLB)  are available to work alongside schools and kura to provide learning support when it is needed. RTLB can assist students’ wellbeing and learning by supporting their teachers. They are specialist, itinerant kaiako or teachers who work across a number of schools and kura. 

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RTLB work with education providers and other agencies and service providers to identify local needs and resources, and plan support based on the evidence of what works, to best support children and young people to learn.

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Support includes system wide, targeted or individual support so that children and young people with learning support needs, including disabilities are welcome and where their achievement, progress, wellbeing and participation is valued. RTLB help teachers, schools, kura and Kāhui Ako to develop inclusive classroom environments that enhance students’ learning, participation and wellbeing.

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RTLB Principles of Practice

Mokopuna & Whānau Centred | Evidence-Informed | Strength-based | Ecological | Inclusive | Collaborative | Culturally Affirming & Responsive 

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Here’s a breakdown of their role and responsibilities:

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1. Support for Students

RTLBs assist schools to support students with diverse learning and behavioural needs, typically those who are experiencing difficulties that affect their progress in school. They provide assistance for students from Years 1 to 10, identifying interventions and strategies tailored to needs. The students  may have a range of challenges, such as learning disabilities, behavioural disorders, or social-emotional issues.

 

2. Collaboration with Teachers and Schools

RTLBs collaborate with classroom teachers to adapt teaching strategies and the learning environment to better meet the needs of students. They may observe students in the classroom, assess their learning or behavioural needs, and then work collaboratively to develop interventions or approaches that could support the student's progress.

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3. Strengthening Teacher Capability

RTLBs also focus on enhancing the skills and capabilities of teachers. They provide professional development and coaching to teachers on strategies for managing diverse learners, ensuring that the interventions  can be sustained and integrated into the classroom routine.

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4. Inclusive Education

RTLBs play a key role in promoting inclusive education, working to ensure that all students, regardless of their learning or behavioural challenges, can participate fully in school life. Their goal is often to support students in the least restrictive environment, enabling them to stay in mainstream classes wherever possible.

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5. Family/Whānau Engagement

RTLBs engage with families or whānau to ensure that the strategies and support systems are aligned at home and school. They provide support to parents and caregivers on how to best support their child’s learning and behaviour.

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6.Request for Support

Schools can access  the RTLB service when additional support is required. The RTLBs conduct assessments, which might involve observations, interviews, or specialised testing, to identify the student and teacher needs and then collaboratively create a plan to address these.

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7. Multi-Disciplinary Approach

RTLBs often work alongside other professionals, such as educational psychologists, speech and language therapists, and social workers, to provide a holistic approach to supporting students and schools.

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RTLBs serve a cluster of schools and work across multiple schools. Their services are free of charge and are an essential part of New Zealand’s inclusive education system aimed at supporting students with diverse needs in mainstream educational settings.