While there is no specific estimate available of the number of hours spent by each school on applications for either RACE or assistive technology, both the SEC and my Department are reviewing respective processes currently.
In relation to the RACE scheme, the SEC, directed by the Board of Commissioners, is leading a comprehensive system wide review of the Scheme which will seek to address relevant issues and take account of best practice internationally. Work is underway as part of the Review to review the RACE application process with a view to moving applications online, reducing the administrative burden on schools and resulting in a more streamlined decision-making process.
The RACE scheme is school-based, and applications are made through schools on behalf of students. Schools also undertake the testing required to support the application. Applications for reasonable accommodations are considered in line with the published Framework of Principles and can only be approved in accordance with the principles and requirements of the scheme which are set out in RACE Instructions for Schools.
In line with established practice, all Junior Cycle and Leaving Certificate RACE applications are subject to quality assurance. The focus of the quality assurance process continues to be assisting schools to comply with the demands of the RACE scheme. In the event that problems are identified, the SEC assisted by the National Educational Psychologist Service (NEPS) provides schools with guidance and advice as to how they should improve their RACE application process.
NEPS also provides advice to the SEC on the eligibility criteria and the testing arrangements required to assess eligibility for RACE supports on grounds of learning difficulty. There is no longer any need to undertake tests of general cognitive ability for the purposes of the RACE scheme as there is no requirement to distinguish between specific and general learning difficulties.
In relation to assistive technology, the Assistive Technology Scheme supplements the overall approach to providing funding to schools for digital technology and equipment to support children for education purposes. All equipment provided under this scheme supports children who require essential specialist equipment in order to access the school curriculum.
I can confirm to the Deputy that my Department is currently finalising a review of this scheme to ensure it is effectively supporting the children it is intended to serve, and that resources are being allocated as efficiently as possible.
There has been widespread consultation in relation to the scheme, and the consensus from stakeholders was that the application system needs to be quicker and easier and that all of the children who need assistive technology to access the curriculum should receive it.
In addition, the application process is being streamlined so that children can get the equipment in the shortest time possible. This will be a simpler process for schools by way of a new portal for schools to submit applications. This portal is currently under development and is intended to be rolled out as soon as possible.
The review will be finalised early in 2026, and in advance of this, I'm pleased to say that I have secured additional funding for this scheme in Budget 2026 to recognise the growing need for assistive technology in our schools.
