Special Educational Needs Service Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 November 2015

Wednesday, 18 November 2015

Ceisteanna (162)

Shane Ross

Ceist:

162. Deputy Shane Ross asked the Minister for Education and Skills further to Question No. 229 of 4 November 2015, her views that, 194 post primary level autistic spectrum disorder-specific special classes in total for the entire country indicates a chronic lack of places for autism students in mainstream secondary schools; her further views that her Department's policy allowing schools to undertake such classes subject to their own willingness is failing; if she will consider directing schools to set up autistic spectrum disorder specific special classes within all secondary schools, as required; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40862/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

The Department's policy is that students with Special Educational needs including Autism should be included in mainstream schools unless this is not in their best interests or the interests of those with whom the are to be educated. Some Students with more complex Special Educational Needs may be supported in a special class in a mainstream school. They have the option where appropriate of full or part time inclusion and interaction with other children. The complex needs of other children may mean they are best placed in a special school. At present some 733 children with autism are enrolled in 194 special classes in post primary schools while a further 2941 children attend mainstream classes with supports. The NCSE has acknowledged that, while more special classes and special school places may be required to meet future needs of children with Autism, in some cases, more able children with autism may not be best placed in special class settings and should be supported through resourced mainstream provision. The NCSE has recently submitted its report on 'Supporting Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder in schools'. My officials are currently considering the report's recommendations and will bring forward a report to me as soon as possible.