Dan Neville
Question:255 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will give details of his Department's service to children suffering from autism. [15951/99]
Written Answers. - Autism Services.
Children with autism have access to a range of educational support services. The precise nature of the support provided will depend on the severity of the condition in each individual case. In some cases, children with mild forms of autism are educated in ordinary schools, with the support, where necessary, of remedial and resource teachers. Children with more serious needs have traditionally been catered for in a number of special schools, including schools for children with mild general learning disability and schools for children with emotional-behavioural disorders.
The Deputy will be aware of my recent announcement giving formal recognition of the distinct educational needs of children with autism. Such children are now being catered for in 40 special classes established in special schools and in mainstream primary schools throughout the country. Each special class caters for a maximum of six children, and receives the support of a teacher, a special needs assistant and enhanced capitation funding. In addition, the relevant health board provides an outreach support service.
My Department's inspectorate is currently investigating the possibility of establishing a number of additional special classes for children with autism in a variety of locations throughout the country. It is my intention to continue to target educational support for children with autism where an assessed level of need has been identified.