Principles
The principles that guide and underpin RTLB practice are
- Inclusive Practice
- Culturally affirming and responsive
- Ecological
- Mokopuna and Whanau centred
- Collaboration
- Strengths Based
- Evidence Based
Practice
RTLB follow a structured process which includes three main phases.
1. Pre-request for support - RTLB liaison Work in a school
2. Request for support - Focussed on individual students learning/behaviour; groups of students; or school wide/projects. Each cluster as an equitable system for prioritising and allocating request for support on a regular basis. Cluster 16 meets weekly for Request for support and allocation meetings.
3. Practice Framework - Once a request for support has been allocated, the RTLB responds by working through the practice framework known as He Pikorua alongside the school.
Outcomes Framework
In the course of RTLB work, RTLB make a difference for students, teachers, schools and whanau. Outcomes data is collected at a case, cluster and national level providing evidence of the positive impact of RTLB work.
Outcomes are collaboratively measured and recorded for
- Student Achievement
- Teacher perception
- Home/School partnership
- Quality of RTLB Service
Professionalism
Cluster 16 provide a professional and supportive environment through
- Induction of new RTLB
- Professional development
- Study support
- Peer group supervision
- Appraisal process
- Regular Staff Meetings
All RTLB work under the NZ Teachers Council Code of Ethics for Registered Teachers which are found here.
Cultural Responsiveness
New Zealand communities are diverse with many different cultural, ethnic, religious groups. RTLB understand and respect the social and cultural influences on learning in the multi-cultural context of Aotearoa New Zealand. They work to strengthen confidence in cultural identity and connection to parents, whanau, and school communities. RTLB work to develop positive and culturally responsive relationships with students and whanau. They use practices that adapt to learners' cultural values, knowledge and ways of learning. Cultural responsiveness places importance on cultural knowledge and understanding and the right of Maori to define, protect and promote their treasures and resources. RTLB support the implementation of Ka Hikitia and Tataiako to promote successful outcomes for Maori students. RTLB interventions should acknowledge the family's aspirations for their child's learning through working collaboratively alongside whanau.