The consultant works with aides to assist them to reduce the level of dependency of the student on them and work towards greater independence all round. It is not uncommon to find a school increasing the aide allocation to full-time wherever possible. This strategy seems to be very effective in terms of immediate issues of managing class behaviour of students with Down syndrome, and is well received by teaching staff. However, schools are encouraged to look beyond these immediate challenges to creating the conditions for long-term improvement in independence. The approach needs to be supported at every point of contact the student has with the school.
