Special needs students will be given services tailored to their individual requirements, as Education bosses address shortfalls in Bermuda’s public school system.Job descriptions for special needs teachers are also being drawn up, with the Ministry congratulated for responding positively to criticisms from Ombudsman Arlene Brock.In a report in 2010, Ms Brock highlighted gaps in services for special needs students discovered while researching a parent’s complaint her child couldn’t get an adequate education.Giving an update on the issue in her annual report for 2011, the Ombudsman stated: “Although we were able to resolve the education needs of this student, we also recommended that Education should establish a clear Special Education Needs policy.“To its credit, Education took this recommendation to heart almost immediately and set about to develop a strategy with input from parents, teachers and other stakeholders.”She said recommendations from the Department of Internal Audit now being incorporated include:n ensure fundamental rules in the SEN policy are enshrined in regulations, to counter the impact of a revolving door of Ministers and Permanent Secretaries;n learn about and incorporate Education’s responsibilities under the National Policy on Disabilities;n access and anticipate which students would require what services, especially students with multiple needs;n develop realistic job descriptions which reflect work done and remove disparities in qualifications for relevant education officers;n draft thorough, actionable, consistent and measurable individual education plans;n accurately document interventions and school visits by education officers to assess the impact of the strategies and services for special needs students.Ms Brock said: “We thank the parent who made this complaint. Ultimately, the complaint not only provided a resolution for her child, but also more broadly will lead to enduring strategies to ensure that Bermuda improves its educational services for all special needs students.”