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Date
17 September 2025
Link
inclusive.tki.org.nz/guides/technology-tools-for-learning/what-are-funded-assistive-technologies

What are funded assistive technologies (ATs)

Suggestion for implementing the strategy ‘Considering Ministry of Education funded assistive technology (AT)’

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What are funded ATs?

What are funded ATs?

The Ministry of Education gives support to learners who need assistive technology and who are receiving a Learning Support service.

Ministry of Education funded AT provides learners with:

  • specialised devices over and above what is available in their classrooms
  • specialised equipment and technology to support them in their learning
  • equitable access to learning.

Understand definitions

Understand definitions

Assistive technologies provide an “on-ramp” to the curriculum for many learners.

Many assistive technologies are built into our phones, tablets, and laptops or can be downloaded for free. They include:

  • Text-to-speech
  • Dictation tools
  • Text magnifiers
  • Closed captions

Sometimes a learner may require the support of a specific type of assistive technology that is not freely available in the classroom.

Assistive technologies funded through the Ministry of Education include specialised equipment that requires a formal application and an assessment.

Types of funded ATs

Types of funded ATs

There are different kinds of assistive technology tools.

Some equipment may be funded through the Ministry of Health or as part of an ACC claim.

Mobility or positioning support

  • Wheelchairs
  • Walking frames
  • Specialised seating
  • Adjustable tables

Access to information

  • Computers
  • Touch screen
  • Software, for example, screen readers, screen enlargement applications
  • Scanners, such as C-Pen
  • Switches
  • Personal remote microphone (RM) systems
  • Magnifiers

Motor aspects of writing

  • Word processor
  • Voice-recognition software
  • Word prediction software
  • Stylus access
  • Alternative mouse
  • Alternative keyboards

Who can apply for Ministry of Education funded AT?

Who can apply for Ministry of Education funded AT?

Who can apply for assistive technology outlines who can apply through the Ministry of Education.

Learners may be considered for Ministry of Education assistive technology funding if they are supported through any of the current Learning Support services or receiving additional learning support at school.

Next steps

More suggestions for implementing the strategy “Considering Ministry of Education funded assistive technology (AT)”:

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Technology tools for learning

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