Special Educational Needs.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 February 2007

Tuesday, 13 February 2007

Ceisteanna (111)

Máire Hoctor

Ceist:

171 Ms Hoctor asked the Minister for Education and Science her proposals to support the role of special schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4933/07]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

My Department recognises the unique contribution of special schools to the education of children with special educational needs (SEN) in Ireland and is committed to further developing this area. For example, my announcement in November 2006 of a 30% increase in the already-enhanced capitation rates in respect of pupils attending special schools and special classes in mainstream schools, is a clear demonstration of my commitment to supporting the important role of special schools.

With inclusion of pupils with SEN becoming a reality for many mainstream schools, it is essential to develop mechanisms to facilitate the sharing of expertise in special schools and to begin the process of creating ‘learning communities of schools'. The development of such a resource role for the special school is an acknowledgement by my Department of the value of these schools. My Department is most anxious that the skills and expertise that these schools have accumulated in supporting children with special educational needs is utilised to best advantage in providing for such children going forward. In addition, it will provide clear pathways towards enabling all schools within a geographical area to liaise professionally in a collaborative and co-operative fashion.

In this regard, I can confirm that my Department has commenced a review of special schools and special classes attached to mainstream schools. The initial part of the review, which commenced in 2006 and is currently being finalised, involves the gathering and collation of information and views from relevant schools in relation to special schools and classes. This was undertaken on behalf of my Department by St Patrick's College, Drumcondra. One of the purposes of the review is to examine how the role and potential of special schools can be optimised. The second phase of the review will be managed by the National Council for Special Education and will involve wider consultation with the schools and other partners.

Question No. 172 answered with QuestionNo. 132.

Question No. 173 answered with QuestionNo. 144.