The Assistive Technology Scheme is provided by my department to supplement the overall approach to providing funding to schools for digital technology and equipment to support children for education purposes. All equipment provided under this scheme supports children who require essential specialist equipment in order to access the school curriculum.
As outlined in circular 0010/2013, the purpose of Assistive Technology Scheme is to provide grant-aid to schools to enable them to purchase essential specialist equipment. This applies in cases where the existing equipment in the school is insufficient to meet the child's needs without unduly depriving other children of access to the equipment and where the absence of such equipment would prevent the child from accessing the curriculum.
The Special Education Section is currently finalising the review of the Assistive Technology Scheme which will culminate in the publication of a new circular and the launch of an updated application process. It is intended to publish the new circular in quarter 1 of this year. A key objective of the review is to streamline the application process. This will be achieved through the implementation of a new portal for schools to submit applications, as well as a review of the eligibility criteria. The department aims to shift the scheme from a diagnosis-based approach, as set out in Circular 08/02, to a needs-based approach, granting schools greater autonomy in determining whether a child requires assistive technology to access the curriculum.
Ultimately, any child who needs assistive technology to access the curriculum will receive it under this scheme.
