My Department does not have details of the prevalence of dyspraxia among children participating in the education system.
Dyspraxia is a condition which affects a child's ability to carry out motor/sensory tasks. A child affected by the condition may have a combination of problems in varying degrees. In some case, children with dyspraxia may also have oral difficulties which delays speech and may require intensive speech therapy.
No specific guidelines have been issued to schools in relation to dyspraxia. However, the condition will manifest itself to class teachers in the difficulties which such children will encounter in performing voluntary movements with precision and co-ordination. Such difficulties are likely to be particularly evident in areas such as handwriting; arts and crafts; and physical education. Where such difficulties do arise, the class teacher can highlight the problem so that the necessary remedial action can be taken. The advice and guidance of my Department's inspectorate is available to schools in any such situations. A wide range of special support services is available to children with special needs, including children with dyspraxia. In addition to the range of special schools and special classes dedicated to children with more serious conditions, children participating in the education system on an integrated basis are supported by the remedial, resource and visiting teacher services.
Funding is also available for the purchase of specialised equipment for children with special education needs, including children with dyspraxia. I understand that at least one such child has been assisted under this arrangement.
The precise nature of the required response in any individual case will of course depend on the needs of the individual child.
If the Deputy has a particular case or cases in mind, he may wish to provide details to my Department so that the matter can be investigated further.
