Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 April 2018
474. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills if further consideration will be given to an application for a special class by a school (details supplied) in view of the enrolment for September 2018 of children who have particular educational needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16735/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible for organising and planning provision for children with Special Educational Needs, including the establishment of special classes in mainstream primary and post primary schools.
Special classes offer a supportive learning environment to students with ASD who are unable to access the curriculum in a mainstream class, even with support, for most or all of their school day. Special classes are for students who have a recommendation for a special class placement in their professional reports.
ASD special classes are resourced to cater for six pupils with complex educational needs arising from their diagnosis of autism and as such are staffed with a reduced PTR (6:1 Primary and 6:1.5 Post Primary) and two Special Needs Assistants.
When new ASD special classes are established in schools, the NCSE will sanction the additional teacher and SNA allocations. This will be reflected in the schools overall staffing allocation for special educational needs, issued in June of each year.
Schools may apply to the NCSE to open a special class where a need has been identified in their area i.e. a number of students have professional reports indicating they require the support of a special class.
The NCSE, in looking to open special classes, must take into account the present and future potential need for such classes, taking particular account of the educational needs of the children concerned. The NCSE will also take account of location and sustainability in looking to establish special classes in certain areas.
In addition, the NCSE will consider:
- the school’s accommodation and accessibility
- the number of special classes, if any, already in the school.
The NCSE has advised officials in my Department that an application has been received from the school referred to by the Deputy and a decision letter will issue to the school shortly.
My Department continues to work with the NCSE to ensure that there is appropriate planning in place to ensure that all children who require special class placements can access such placements in schools within their communities.
