Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Tuesday, 1 July 2025: The Special Education Needs Services (SENS) Department of the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, recently welcomed a visiting team from the One World Foundation, a non-profit organisation committed to equitable access to assessments and therapeutic services for children with special needs. Over the course of one week, the team conducted comprehensive multidisciplinary assessments — including speech-language, behavioural, and occupational evaluations — for thirty-one students (31) children throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands.
This marks another collaboration with One World Foundation and builds on the government’s commitment to expanding early identification and intervention services. The visiting team worked closely with local clinicians to assess and support students who have been awaiting services, allowing families to gain clarity and direction on their children’s developmental needs.
“This initiative represents the heart of what we aim to do at SENS,” said Dr. Anya Malcolm-Gibbs, Director of Special Education Needs Services. “Bringing together experts from multiple disciplines helps us give children the well-rounded, timely support they deserve. The partnership with One World Foundation allows us to address gaps in access and make real strides toward inclusive education across the islands.”
The assessments were held in Providenciales, Grand Turk, and South Caicos, allowing for wide-reaching impact. Dozens of students received evaluations, and parents were given feedback and guidance for next steps, including referrals for therapy and support strategies for home and school.
“It was an honor to coordinate this visit and see the transformation in so many of our students,” said Mrs. Lashaunda Skippings, Coordinator of Assessments. “For some families, this was the first time their child was evaluated, and the relief, hope, and gratitude were deeply moving. We look forward to building on this momentum.”
Minister of Education Hon. Rachel M. Taylor praised the initiative, noting the vital importance of early diagnosis and intervention in national development: “As a ministry, we remain steadfast in our investment in the future of every child. These assessments not only empower families, but also equip our schools to better serve all learners. We are proud of the work of the SENS department and grateful to One World Foundation for joining hands with us in this mission.”
The SENS Department extends sincere appreciation to One World Foundation and looks forward to continued collaboration aimed at strengthening access to high-quality special education and therapeutic services across Turks and Caicos. For more information on the SENS Department and their services, you can contact sens@gov.tc.