(1) Educational training or school based work.
There were 22 responses included in this theme. For example TA29 wrote:
I trained and achieved my Numeracy and Literacy Certificates at (a named school). I have learnt more on the job
and attending PDs whenever I am able to go. I have worked with many students with a range of disabilities and I
continue to learn.
(2) Being a parent and/or relation of a person with a disability.
There were 26 participants whose responses were included in this group. For example, TA101 noted: “my
brother has cerebral palsy”. TA 47 noted:
I am currently studying teaching. I have volunteered for Special Olympics and have an autistic nephew and a
step brother and sister with alphamonosidosis.
(3) Experiences gained through volunteering or working at a school.
Nineteen participants responded with comments related to this theme. For example, TA34 wrote:
I was teaching a Prep/One class when the new Integration Policy came in, around 1984 I think it was. I ended up
with a boy with cerebral palsy in my room that could not even sit up, go to the toilet, or talk—and I was expected
to cope with NO assistance! It was very challenging, and I must admit I resented that little boy’s presence. But it
was also rewarding, and may be part of the reason why I love working in Integration now.