Enhancing Curriculum at Early Childhood Institute to Equip Teachers to Support Children with Developmental Needs

Mr Louis Ng Kok Kwang asked the Minister for Education whether the Ministry has plans to enhance the curriculum at the National Institute of Early Childhood Development (NIEC) to provide all trainee educators with comprehensive training in supporting children with developmental needs.

Mr Chan Chun Sing: The National Institute of Early Childhood Development's (NIEC's) training programmes are aligned with the Skills Framework for Early Childhood, which was developed by the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA). The Skills Framework requires NIEC's programmes to include content on understanding children with developmental needs, inclusive practices and designing an inclusive learning environment.

All NIEC's pre-service courses include mandatory modules to equip trainees with foundational skills required to identify and support children with developmental needs. For example, as part of the Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education – Teaching, trainees learn about inclusive practices and the role of early childhood educators in designing individualised learning plans.

In addition, NIEC offers programmes for in-service educators to deepen their knowledge and skills in supporting children with developmental needs. These include the Certificate in Inclusive Practice, ECDA-endorsed Continuing Professional Development courses as well as Specialist Diploma programmes for preschool educators who are keen on taking on specialist roles as Learning Support Educators and Early Intervention Educators.

NIEC will continue to work closely with ECDA, preschool operators and Early Intervention Programme for Infants and Children centres to ensure that its courses are up-to-date in supporting children with developmental needs.