Under the Assistive Technology Scheme, as set out in my Department’s Circular 0010/2013, funding is provided to schools towards the cost of computers and specialist equipment, which are required for educational purposes.
All equipment provided under this scheme supports children with more complex disabilities who, in order to access the school curriculum, require essential specialist equipment.
It is vital that all learners have the opportunity to reach their potential, with digital technologies providing the means to overcome traditional barriers to learning, and to support inclusion across education.
The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs) is responsible for processing applications from schools for special educational needs supports. SENOs also make recommendations to my Department where assistive technology/specialised equipment is required. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in making recommendations for support.
In order to qualify for equipment under the Assistive Technology Scheme, a student must have been diagnosed with a physical or communicative disability and must also have a recommendation in a professional assessment that the equipment is essential in order to allow the student to access the curriculum. It must also be clear that the existing I.T. equipment in the school is insufficient to meet the child's needs.
Schools make applications directly to the SENO, providing details of the student’s special educational needs or disability, including details of the approach taken by the school in making relevant interventions.
SENOs will review the application, and professional reports provided in support of same, in order to establish whether the criteria of the scheme have been met. They will then make a recommendation to my Department as to whether or not assistive technology is required; and based on this recommendation, my Department will decide on the level of grant, if any, to be provided.
Although equipment is sanctioned under the Assistive Technology Grant Scheme for use by particular students, it is the property of the school and the school’s management authority is responsible for maintenance, repair, and insurance of the equipment. Where the school has no further requirement for the equipment or where a pupil transfers to a different school, the SENO will review on a case by case basis and may allocate it to another school in the interests of meeting needs to the greatest extent possible. This is done at a local level before a decision is made in relation to whether the equipment should be transferred to a different school.
On enrolment in a different school, it is open to that school to apply for assistive technology for the pupil where it is clear that the existing I.T. equipment in the school is insufficient to meet the child's needs.
All schools have the contact details of their local SENO. Parents are also encouraged to discuss their children's needs with the SENO whose contact details can be accessed at: ncse.ie/regional-services-contact-list.
