This article reports the views of recent graduates of a competency based, blended learning teacher education programme for specialist resource teachers of children with learning and behaviour difficulties in New Zealand. Identifying and developing the competencies needed by teachers in the field of special needs education is important in ensuring…

Traces the history and philosophy of core skills. Suggests that, although the way they are used in training and vocational education has positively changed the way skills are viewed, the approach is narrow in outlook, especially the General National Vocational Qualifications, and may not serve the best interests of industry or society. (Author/JOW)