Students from both Bachelor of Teaching Primary and Inclusive Education (Jan 2023 intake) together with the students from Bachelor of Teaching Primary (May 2023 intake) enhanced their practical knowledge and exposure of Special Education Needs by visiting Kulhelama Therapy to seek information regarding Occupational Therapy (OT)services rendered by the Clinic.

The students were given a briefing on OT by Occupational Therapist Ms. Thooha Adley. The students were also made aware of the important role of teachers in providing to students who need Occupational therapy. According to them ‘When working with children, Occupational Therapists work with the families and also often with other people such as teachers, speech therapists, psychologists, doctors, etc. Collaborative care is always recommended for best care practice’. Our students are now equipped with ways of seeking help for such students by reaching out or referring them to therapists for OT.

If we are to move into a system of more inclusive education, these types of exposures are very important for all teachers who are getting trained to work inside classrooms with diverse learners. We hope to provide more opportunities for our student teachers in the future too.