Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 April 2022
508. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education the reason there are no onsite therapists at the new special school (details supplied) in Dublin 12 given their importance to such a school and that no child in a special school should be without this support given that its lack affects not only the development of the child but can also leave teachers and SNAs in very difficult situations. [18379/22]
View answerSpecial schools generally cater for children with the most complex needs. Accordingly, these schools have enhanced staffing levels with greatly reduced pupil/teacher and SNA staffing allocations.
In general, speech and language and occupational therapy supports are provided by the HSE.
On an ongoing basis, special schools also have access to the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) advisory support service which advises on children with the most complex needs, including behavioural needs.
Special schools in a start-up situation are targeted for specific support. Care is taken in the planning of these schools and the provision of specialist training and support. A bespoke package of CPD and professional learning for the staff of this new school has taken place with inputs from my Department, the National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) and the relevant agencies including the NCSE. This school will also continue to be supported by NEPS.
I can assure the Deputy that my Department and NCSE will continue to prioritise this school for support.
