In order to be recognised by my Department, second level schools are required to meet certain requirements in relation to the education of the pupils enrolled in their schools.
The obligations of schools in this regard have been placed on a statutory basis by sections 9 and 15 of the Education Act, 1998. Specifically section 9(a) provides that a school shall ensure that the educational needs of all students, including those with a disability or other special educational needs, are identified and provided for.
While this section has not been commenced I intend to commence it shortly.
My Department allocates funding and staffing resources to second level schools to enable them to meet their obligations in this regard.