New Zealand Autism Spectrum Disorder Guideline - Ministry of Health

Part 6: Professional learning and development
Part 6
Recommendations: Grade Cross-reference
6.18 Education and interventions should be planned and
implemented by professionals* with appropriate ASD
education and qualifications.
* In New Zealand, these are professionals who meet the Ministry
of Education’s criteria to provide services in early intervention and
services in other educational settings.
C
3.1 Approaches
to teaching and
learning in the
early years
6.19 Professionals (including teachers) who are responsible
for students with ASD need release for professional
learning and development, consultation, family meetings,
observation, mentoring, planning and supervision.
C
6 Professional
learning and
development
6.20 Different professional groups and multidisciplinary teams
should be given the opportunity to train together.
C
6 Professional
learning and
development
6.21 In addition to workshops and seminars, all professionals
and paraprofessionals who are learning new skills should be
offered opportunities for practice, coaching and feedback.
C
6 Professional
learning and
development
6.22 Distance learning opportunities should be developed for
those working away from the main centres.
C
6 Professional
learning and
development
6.23 Priority for professional learning and development should
be given to those who provide a specialist or consultancy
service and support and education to others.
B
6 Professional
learning and
development
Other recommendations
6.24 The development of a coordinated national plan for
professional learning and development should be
undertaken. This should include standards for professional
learning and development and competencies for
professional roles.
B
6 Professional
learning and
development
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New Zealand Autism Spectrum Disorder Guideline