Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 October 2023
234. Deputy John Paul Phelan asked the Minister for Education the reason no reply was issued to a person (details supplied) regarding a place in a primary school for an autistic child; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44870/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department issued a reply to the parent of the child referred to by Deputy on 1 June 2023. Additionally, 2 further replies in relation to this matter were issued to a public representative who communicated with my Department on behalf of the parent. These replies issued on 16 June and 29 June 2023.
My Department's policy in regards to the retention of pupils in primary schools is set out in Primary Circular 32/03 ‘Retention of Pupils in same Grade in Primary Schools’ (link available here:- Primary Circular 32/03 - Retention of Pupils in same grade in Primary Schools (File Format Word 34B) (assets.gov.ie).
Circular 32/03 recognises that in exceptional circumstances a school may conclude a pupil or student would benefit educationally by repeating a grade level having first consulted with the Special Educational Needs teacher, class teacher and parents. In such circumstances there should be a clear programme outlined for such a pupil that records precisely what new approach will be used for the pupil and what its expected benefit will be.
In summary decisions in relation to requests to repeat a year are a matter for the school provided there is an educational basis for it, and it is clear that all parties agree that the pupil would benefit educationally by repeating a class.
