Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 September 2024
314. Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for Education if she will instruct schools (details supplied) to open ASD units, as they have the space to do so and there is a severe lack of ASD units in these catchment areas. [36490/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraEnabling children with special educational needs to receive an education is a priority for this government. It is also a key priority for my department and for the National Council for Special Education (NCSE).
The vast majority of children with special educational needs are supported to attend mainstream classes with their peers. Where children with more complex needs require additional supports, special classes and special school places are provided. Over 400 new special classes have been sanctioned by the NCSE for the 2024/25 school year meaning there is now over 3,300 special classes nationwide.
The NCSE has advised that they are aware of future need for special classes in the area and will visit schools with the potential to expand over the course of the school year. Engagement with all schools with available capacity will form the planning process for the 2025/26 school year and beyond.
While it may not be possible to expand accommodation in all schools due to site restrictions, in such cases schools with students enrolled with special educational needs are provided additional supports such as special need assistants (SNAs). The NCSE can also arrange tailored visits from their special educational needs advisors if required.
For the 2024/25 school year one new special class has been sanctioned in the area and resources have been allocated, in addition, there are a number of places in a local primary school for students seeking enrolment into second class or above. The NCSE is confident that through the provision of these classes and vacancies in existing classes there is sufficient places to meet the needs of all children known to them for the 2024/25 school year.
Parents seeking special class placements for their children are advised to the NCSE locally so that their needs can be taken into account for planning purposes. The local special educational needs organisers (SENOs) remain available to assist and advise parents of children with special educational needs. Parents may contact SENOs directly using the contact details available on the NCSE’s website.
The department will continue to support the NCSE and schools through the provision of the necessary funding and capital investment to ensure all children are successful in accessing an education.
