Paul McGrath
Question:238 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science the educational facilities available in County Westmeath to primary school age children who are autistic. [17328/04]
View answerTuesday, 15 June 2004
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Children with autism have access to a range of special support services. To date 130 special classes dedicated to children with autism have been established in the primary sector. Each class operates at a maximum pupil-teacher ratio of 6:1 and have the support of at least two special needs assistants. More classes are being established on an ongoing basis in response to assessed needs. At present there are two special classes for pupils with autism attached to schools in County Westmeath.
Children with special educational needs, including autistic children, attending mainstream schools are generally catered for by the support of a resource teacher and special needs assistant services. The level of support provided is determined by the professionally assessed needs of a child.
While autistic children wait for a suitable educational placement my Department may sanction home tuition as an interim measure, if appropriate.