Special education : matters of the heart

Abstract

Special education has always received less attention from the public, as compared to mainstream education. Even till today, there is still a lack of public awareness of what it is, and what goes on within the special schools. Parents of special needs children are, unsurprisingly, most concerned about their children’s future. They worry about whether their children can fend for themselves in Singapore, on the highly competitive job market. Those with children who have more severe disabilities wonder if their children will be able to receive adequate care when they grow up. Teachers, especially those who have watched the children grow under their guidance, care deeply for them as well. They too hope that the hard work they have put in to train the children will help them lead independent and fulfilled lives.

This is a Chinese feature writing project focused on the special education sector in Singapore. Through interviews with teachers, principals, parents, students and other people involved in the sector, we aim to provide a balanced and deeper look into what goes on within this often overlooked area of education.