Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 February 2026
613. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Education and Youth the number of applications received in each of the past five years seeking permission for students in special schools to remain for an additional year where they reach 18 years-of-age before 1 September; the number of such applications approved and refused; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11899/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraEnabling students with special educational needs to receive an education that meets their needs is a priority for this Government. It is also a key priority for me, my department and for the National Council for Special Education (NCSE).
The vast majority of students with special educational needs are supported to attend mainstream classes with their peers. Where students with more complex needs require additional supports, special class and special school places are provided. This is in keeping with policy on an inclusive education, which advocates that students will be supported to receive an education in the most inclusive setting possible.
Special schools funded by the department are classified as primary national schools and are intended, in accordance with the provisions of Rule 64(1) of the Rules for National Schools, to provide an education for children and young persons with special educational needs from the age of 4 years until the end of the school year in which they reach their 18th year.
Special schools may however seek approval from the department for an exemption from Rule 64(1) in respect of students over the age of 18 who are pursuing learning programmes leading to accreditation which align with the National Qualifications Framework.
Details of the number of applications received from 2021/22 to 2025/26 is provided on the attached table.
My department and the NCSE are committed to delivering an education system that is of the highest quality and where every child and young person feels valued and is actively supported and nurtured to reach their full potential.
|
Over 18's Applications between 2021/2022 to 2025/2026 |
|
|
|
|
Year |
No. of Applications received |
No. of pupils additional year Sanctioned |
No. of pupils additional year Refused |
|
2025/2026 |
73 |
71 |
2 |
|
2024/2025 |
66 |
65 |
1 |
|
2023/2024 |
70 |
68 |
2 |
|
2022/2023 |
74 |
69 |
5 |
|
2021/2022 |
117 |
111 |
6 |
|
Totals |
400 |
384 |
16 |
