Job Scope of Work of Special Educational Needs Officers in Mainstream Schools and Concerns Raised

Ms He Ting Ru asked the Minister for Education (a) what policy specifies the primary scope of work for special educational needs (SEN) officers in mainstream schools; (b) what mechanism exists for SEN officers to formally raise concerns about their scope of duties; and (c) whether officers designated to supervise SEN officers are required to hold SEN-specific qualifications or training.

Mr Desmond Lee: The role of special educational needs (SEN) officers is to support students with special educational needs by providing targeted interventions and by raising the capability of educators teaching these students.

SEN officers who have concerns regarding their scope of duties can discuss these with their reporting officers (ROs) or school leaders. They can also provide feedback or raise concerns through the Ministry of Education's staff feedback and human resource channels.

SEN Officers are supervised by ROs within their schools, who are typically key personnel or school leaders with experience in developing and supporting staff. While these ROs are not required to hold SEN-specific qualifications, they are briefed on the role of SEN Officers, how they can be deployed meaningfully and their professional development pathways. Additionally, SEN officers receive on-the-job coaching and mentoring from more experienced colleagues, such as lead and master SEN officers.