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Resource Teachers: Learning and Behaviour (RTLB) play a vital role in New Zealand's education system by providing specialized support to kaiako (teachers) and whānau to ensure that mokopuna/students receive the best possible learning opportunities.

RTLB are trained to address various learning and behavioral challenges that some mokopuna/students may face. They work collaboratively with kaiako to develop strategies tailored to individual needs.

Overall, RTLB are essential in fostering an inclusive education system that not only addresses academic challenges but also supports the emotional and social development of children. Their collaborative approach helps build a community of support around each mokopuna/student, enhancing their learning experience and well-being.

Our Mahi

After the parent/ legal guardian have given their informed consent for the RTLB Service to be involved with their tamariki (child), the case will be allocated to an RTLB. The RTLB works using the He Pikorua Practice Framework which is underpinned by seven guiding principles:

Mokopuna and whānau-centred;
Strengths-based;
Collaborative;
Culturally affirming and responsive;
Inclusive;
Ecological;
and Evidence informed.

The RTLB will meet with whānau, mokopuna/student, the kaiako and, if applicable, with other relevant professionals to gather information and plan how best to support mokopuna/students. Whānau will be part of the process on an ongoing basis until the case is closed.

He Pikorua in Action © Ministry of Education 2024.

Te Tūāpapa o He Pikorua © Ministry of Education 2024

Accessing RTLB support

Requests for RTLB support for mokopuna/students are made through schools. Schools can seek RTLB assistance to address the needs of mokopuna experiencing learning and behaviour challenges.

We use Te Tūāpapa o He Pikorua framework which uses three tiers of support: Te Matua - whole school and systems work, Te Kāhui - class and small groups, and Te Arotahi - individual.

If whānau or family members believe their child could benefit from additional support, they should discuss this with the classroom teacher. The teacher can then explore the option of submitting a request for RTLB support on behalf of the mokopuna/student.

Te Tiriti o Waitangi

RTLB practice is underpinned by the three articles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi by:

working effectively with iwi and other Māori providers involved with mokopuna/students,
valuing mokopuna/students as tāonga (treasure),
and making sure whānau and families have the opportunity to participate in the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is "Informed Consent" (for Parents, Guardians and Whānau)?

"Informed Consent" means that parents or guardians are fully informed about RTLB involvement regarding their mokopuna/students before they agree to it. This includes understanding the purpose, benefits, risks, and any alternatives.

Here’s how it works:

Clear Information: Schools & RTLB provide clear and detailed information about what is being proposed, such as strategies, special services, and interventions.
Understanding: Whānau should have the chance to ask questions and discuss any concerns to ensure they understand all aspects.
Voluntary Agreement: After receiving all the information, whānau decide whether to agree (consent) or not, without any pressure.
Documentation: Whānau will sign a form that indicates they have received this information and agree to the proposed action.

Informed consent helps ensure that whānau are active participants in the education and well-being of their tamariki. But it doesn't end at signing the consent form. Informed consent must be on-going. Whānau have the right to withdraw their consent at any time.

What happens to the information you collect about my mokopuna and can I ask to see it?

All information is kept securely on the RTLB Case Management System (CMS). The CMS is password protected and can only be accessed by authorised school personnel and the RTLB.

You have the right to ask for a copy of any personal information RTLB hold in relation to your mokopuna/student, and may ask for it to be corrected if it is incorrect. You can request information for an open case directly from the RTLB supporting your mokopuna/student. If it is a closed case, information can be requested from the Cluster Manager.

Collected information on your mokopuna/student will be disposed of securely after 7 years.

Who will have access to information about my mokopuna?

Information about your mokopuna/student may be shared with the collaborative team, including the kaiako (teacher), whānau, and relevant agencies, as needed to provide services or as required by law, including Te Mahau Learning Support.

If your mokopuna/student transfers to a different school within another cluster, the collected information may be shared with the new cluster with your consent.

What happens if I no longer want the service?

You have the right to withdraw your consent for the service to support your mokopuna/student at any time. If you decide to do this, you can initiate the process by discussing your concerns or intentions with the RTLB case worker or the RTLB Cluster Manager.

What do I do if I am unhappy about the service?

You can talk through any issues with the RTLB case worker, or contact the RTLB Cluster Manager of Ngā Hau e Whā.

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