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Weltec is closing the only two courses for students with intellectual disabilities in the Wellington region. Parents are dismayed, saying it removes the only educational pathway in the capital for those who do not achieve NCEA Level 1.
From next year, Weltec will no longer offer the Certificate in Supported Living or the Certificate in Skills for Learning and Working. The courses teach students how to manage daily living, become more independent, participate in the community and learn skills for the workplace.Weltec says it has been a difficult decision, but it is exploring options with community groups which might be able to deliver the programmes. It declined an invitation to appear on the programme. IHC is urging Weltec to rethink, and there is concern that polytechs in other regions could go the same way.
Kathryn speaks with Denise Laing, who's son Zak finished the course last year, Cam Fraser from Transition Kete, who works with teachers and parents to help transition students with intellectual disabilities from schools, and Trish Grant, Inclusive Education Lead for IHC.
