A Resource for Teachers and School Learning Support Officers

Student Services Riverina Region
Instructional strategies employed in the classroom
Student evaluation procedures
Communication book
Supervision guidelines
Ensure Child Protection, Emergency Care and Resuscitation Training are undertaken
Have regular meetings, debrief often
Include SLSOs in any decision making so they are aware of their role in the plan
Ensure the SLSO is aware of any Health Care Plan. Provide training if necessary
Common Teacher Questions
What duties can I ask my SLSO to perform?
Refer to the Roles & Rresponsibilities statement.
How do our responsibilities differ?
The School Learning Support Officer (SLSO) should not be given responsibility for
class management, control, playground supervision or teaching of students. The
teacher takes full responsibility for all these areas and the SLSO assist as directed.
How can I create a satisfying & enjoyable working environment?
Effective communication is the key factor - achieved by talking, discussing roles &
responsibilities, outlining programs, discussing daily routines, providing clear
instructions, clearly displaying routine & daily procedures. A useful suggestion is to
use a communication book any extra tasks or instructions especially if you have the
SLSO coming and there is a change in routine.
How can I manage the situation where the SLSO is older & more experienced?
Be clear in your outcomes - know what you are trying to achieve and how you will do
this.
Use the SLSO’s experience and expertise where you can - if they have worked with
the students for a number of years they will have a better understanding of their
needs etc - but remember it is you who is responsible for the student’s program.
What do I do if I have more than one SLSO working on different/same day?
• Communication - you must be clear about who is doing what, where and when or
with whom
• Display the timetable and make sure it is followed properly – supervise to make sure
things are running smoothly
• Be flexible and change the jobs around to work with SLSO’s strengths and
experience
• By encouraging SLSOs to swap and change where possible, can also assist to
reduce fatigue and avoid injuries whilst also given opportunities for professional
development.
Riverina SLSO Guidelines 2012. Adapted from Illawarra and South Region J.Agzarian 12