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What is assistive technology?
What assistive technology is and how it is used in schools and kura to help students.
What we fund
Teachers and specialist support staff can apply for assistive technology funding for some students where everyday classroom equipment/technology is not enough.
We may consider funding for assistive technology if the student needs specialised equipment at school. The equipment must be different from what is already available in the class or school.
Assistive technology funding doesn't cover equipment for daily living or for injuries that gets taken home. The Ministry of Social Development - Disability Support Services and the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) are responsible for funding these.
Who assistive technology funding is for
To be eligible, students must have additional learning needs where everyday classroom equipment/technology is not enough.
Assistive technology is considered for students who are:
- supported by one of our learning support services, or
- receiving additional learning support at school which include:
- has a current individual learning support plan that has been in place for at least 3 months
- be at least 1 level below expected NZ curriculum level
- be receiving ongoing learning support from a school leader such as a SENCO or Learning Support Coordinator
- be receiving additional adult support in class for a minimum of 2 hours 1:1 (individual) or 4 hours (small group) per week. This could be from a teacher, a resource teacher, a teacher aide or a combination of all.
A formal diagnosis is not usually needed for an assistive technology application. Auditory Processing Disorder is an exception and requires a formal diagnosis.
Independent schools and homeschooled students
These students may be able to access assistive technology funding if they have additional learning needs. They must meet the eligibility criteria and be receiving support through one of our learning support services.
Next step
Contact your local assistive technology coordinator to confirm that an application is appropriate.
Complete an assessment and apply for assistive technology.
