Union takes a stance against disruptive classroom environments and emphasizes the need for adequate support for all students.

In response to ongoing challenges faced by educators, the UPE has implemented new directives effective from tomorrow, Tuesday 24th October 2023, to address disruptive classroom environments and ensure the provision of adequate support for all students.

Following the recent directives issued by the UPE, it has come to the Union’s attention that some schools have made commendable efforts to resolve the issues at hand. However, it remains a concern that a significant number of schools continue to hinder educators from delivering proper and effective lessons to mainstream students.

“The reality is that teachers and KGEs are unable to provide adequate lessons to the rest of the class, while LSEs are struggling to cope with the additional workload.”

In some instances, KGE relievers have been assigned to assist students with disabilities who are still awaiting statementing, while other schools have implemented a roster for shared LSEs, allowing them to support students without a statement. The UPE strongly opposes these measures and has raised this issue with the Ministry of Education.

The reality is that teachers and KGEs are unable to provide adequate lessons to the rest of the class, while LSEs are struggling to cope with the additional workload. Recognizing this challenge, the UPE has decided to put forth additional directives, effective from tomorrow, Tuesday 24th October 2023.

Teachers, KGEs, and KGE relievers who are UPE members are instructed to cease all lessons, teaching activities, and outings if non-statemented students are present in the classroom and pose a health risk or disrupt the learning environment due to their behavior. 

“The Union finds it unacceptable that the Statementing Board has, for several years, reduced the entitlements given to students with disabilities, in some cases even revoking them completely.”

The UPE firmly believes that every student should have access to an inclusive and supportive learning environment that nurtures their well-being and academic progress. These directives aim to enable educators to focus on providing quality education to all students, while ensuring that the necessary support systems are in place to meet the needs of students requiring additional assistance. The Union finds it unacceptable that the Statementing Board has, for several years, reduced the entitlements given to students with disabilities, in some cases even revoking them completely.

It appears evident that the government is prioritizing cost-cutting measures at the expense of our children.

In conclusion, the UPE’s implementation of these new directives underscores its commitment to advocate for a conducive learning environment for all students. By taking a firm stance against disruptive classroom settings and highlighting the importance of adequate support, the Union strives to create an inclusive education system that benefits every student.

Members of the UPE are encouraged to invite other colleagues to join the union by visiting upe.mt and to seek help they are to email the union on info@upe.mt or call on. 99946582 or 21221252