Technical Assistance - MTSS Model for Primary and Secondary Education

Organizational Context

UNESCO, as the Grant Agent for the Global Partnership for Education (GPE), supports the Ministry of Education and Culture (MEC) in Samoa with a USD 2.5 million education reform initiative. This four-year project focuses on teacher development, gender equality, inclusion, and community participation, aligning with international and national development strategies. The project aims to strengthen early childhood education, foundational learning in primary schooling, and technical and vocational education pathways.

Job Purpose

The objective of this consultancy is to support the Ministry of Education and Culture (MEC) in Samoa to develop and operationalize a relevant, evidence-based, and contextually adapted Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) early intervention model. This will involve data-driven planning to achieve systems transformation in foundational literacy and numeracy for primary students. The Technical Assistant will scope, plan, and prepare for the implementation of this program, ensuring it strengthens learning progression and adopts a whole-child approach, ultimately contributing to students' success in secondary education and beyond.

Responsibilities

The Technical Assistant will be responsible for scoping, planning, and preparing for the operationalization of an evidence-based, contextually adapted MTSS early intervention program. Key tasks include conducting a literature review to identify suitable MTSS models for Samoan schools, and performing a diagnostic assessment of foundational literacy and numeracy gaps using national data. The consultant will identify and engage diverse pilot schools for the MTSS intervention based on achievement data and other factors. Furthermore, a costed operational plan for the MTSS intervention will be developed, detailing training schedules, data analysis, intervention activities, staffing requirements, and necessary resources. The consultant will also prepare a work plan, a literature review report, a diagnostic assessment findings report, and profiles of MTSS pilot schools.

Work Experience

A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in educational research, specifically linked to foundational learning (literacy and numeracy), is required. Demonstrated experience in qualitative and quantitative data analysis, and in supporting capacity building for improved educational outcomes is essential. Familiarity with education monitoring systems and relevant datasets is also necessary.

Skills

Essential skills include demonstrated experience in qualitative and quantitative data analysis, and in supporting capacity building for improved educational outcomes. Prior experience with assessment tools suitable for bilingual/multilingual learners is highly desirable. Strong communication and facilitation skills are crucial for engaging stakeholders effectively.

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