Support Gap Persists

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

More than 9,500 students in Bahrain’s public schools have learning difficulties, yet only 6,822 receive structured support, while older students largely rely on special exam arrangements, the Ministry of Education has revealed.

Secondary-level assistance is limited, with some students who struggle to progress referred for psychiatric evaluation, according to the ministry’s response to a parliamentary inquiry by Shura Council member Dr Ebtesam Al Dallal, who sought details on the number of affected students and the measures in place to support them.

The learning difficulties support programme was introduced in the 1986/1987 academic year, focusing on primary and intermediate levels.

Diagnostic test

The ministry explained that students showing a clear gap between their ability and schoolwork, particularly in Arabic and mathematics, are assessed at the start of each year through a set of diagnostic tests.

“Each student has a tailored plan to address their needs,” the ministry said. “The aim is to bring them up to the expected level for their year group. Dedicated learning rooms are used to provide extra help, after which students return to their regular classes.”

Arabic assessments are divided into three bands, covering early, middle, and later primary years.

Mathematics follows a similar approach, with teachers referring students based on standardised assessments and performance in class.

Individual learning plans are set out for each student, focusing on literacy and numeracy support delivered in separate sessions during the school day.

Support drops off at secondary level, where students rely on special exam committees rather than day-to-day teaching assistance.

The ministry said some students who fail to make headway are referred to the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Unit, where medical reports are used to assess their needs and determine their placement.

The ministry has brought in specialist teachers to help students in Arabic and mathematics, with education experts overseeing their work.

“We are working to ensure these teachers are well-trained and that students get the support they need throughout the year,” the ministry stated.

Education policy

Students with learning difficulties are not placed in separate classrooms but are taught alongside their peers, in line with Bahrain’s education policy under Law No. 27 of 2005, which requires all educable students to be accommodated in mainstream schools.

“Integration is key,” the ministry said. “Students with learning difficulties are in the same classes as their peers but receive extra support where required.”

Measures include dedicated rooms equipped with specialist teaching materials, personalised learning plans, and additional exam support.

Learning support

The ministry said while current arrangements provide structured help in primary and intermediate schools, work is being done to increase the number of specialist teachers and improve learning support for older students.

The ministry closed by stating its intention to keep working with the Shura Council, emphasising the importance of cooperation between government and Parliament to improve education across the kingdom.