Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 28 Mar 2000

Vol. 516 No. 6

Written Answers. - Teacher Training.

Nora Owen

Question:

376 Mrs. Owen asked the Minister for Education and Science the proposals, if any, for teacher training or classroom assistants in the autistic outreach units under the care of a school (details supplied) in County Dublin; the plans, if any, to include training on autism needs as part of the teacher training syllabus for both primary and secondary teacher training colleges; if he will indicate the plans, if any, he has to establish a long-term education plan involving his Department, the Department of Health and Children and the parents and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8932/00]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

My Department is currently considering the question of support services for special classes catering for pupils with autism, including those referred to by the Deputy. This includes the training of staff. The involvement of the Department of Health and Children and the parents in planning for these pupils is also being considered at present.

The pre-service training of teachers equips them to deal with a range of pupil diversity. Students at the two larger colleges of education follow a module in special education as part of their basic teacher training. The two expert groups which I have appointed on teachers' pre-service education are reviewing the need for training in this area.