A World Class Inclusive Education System for Ireland
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Support for Parents/Guardians
The Parents/Guardians section on our website contains information and guidance to help parents and guardians navigate the special education system in Ireland. Whether you are seeking details about available supports in schools, how to access services, or your entitlements, the NCSE is here to support you in making informed decisions about your child’s learning and development.
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Support for School Leaders
The School Leaders section contains information on supports available to schools, guidelines and applications for accessing support and resources to assist in providing inclusive education.
You will also find information on Special Classes and Special Schools, our new Education Therapy Service and our Relate initiative.
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Support for Teachers
The Teachers section contains information on Teacher Professional Learning (TPL) courses and seminars provided by the NCSE. You can view our TPL Booklet and calendar and book your place on one of our seminars.
You will also find a range of resources for Teachers that will assist you in providing an inclusive education to all students in your class.
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NCSE Head Office
Find out about the work of our Research Unit, Policy Advice, Careers at the NCSE, Data and Statistics, Publications and Contact Information.
Need help or school information?
SENOs work directly with schools, parents/guardians, and other stakeholders to ensure that children with special educational needs (SEN) receive appropriate educational supports.
Find contact details for your local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs).
School Information map
View our School Information Map to search by location and view schools with special classes, specialist supports and contact details for SENOs who provide support to the schools in your area.
Contact the NCSE
The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is here to support you. Whether you’re looking to contact your local Special Educational Needs Organiser (SENO), connect with a Visiting Teacher, or reach our Head Office team, you’ll find all the details you need in our Contact Us webpage.
LATEST UPDATES
What’s new at NCSE
Stay informed with the latest news, announcements, and updates from the National Council for Special Education. Learn about policy changes, upcoming events, and support initiatives for schools and families.
COMMON QUESTIONS
How can we help?
Who are we?
The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) was set up to improve the delivery of education services to persons with special educational needs arising from disabilities.
The Council was first established as an independent statutory body by order of the Minister for Education and Science in December 2003.
The aim of the NCSE is to support an inclusive education system that enables students and adults with special educational needs to achieve their potential.
What we do?
- We plan, co-ordinate and review the provision of educational supports to support students with special educational needs in line with Department of Education policy.
- We provide the Minister for Education with expert, independent, evidence-informed policy advice on special education for students and young adults.
- We commission, conduct and share research on all aspects of special education.
- We review and advise on the continuing options available in higher, adult and continuing education, and rehabilitation and training for adults with special educational needs.
- We provide information on special education to all who need it.
How are our services delivered?
The NCSE operates on a team basis.
NCSE Teams
- Cavan Monaghan Leitrim
- Clare
- Cork (2 teams)
- Donegal
- Dublin (4 teams)
- Galway
- Kerry
- Kildare
- Laois Carlow Kilkenny
- Limerick
- Louth Meath
- Mayo Sligo
- Offaly Tipperary
- Roscommon Longford Westmeath
- Waterford Wexford
- Wicklow
What supports are available to students with special educational needs in school?
- Special Education Teaching (SET)
- Access to Special Needs Assistants (SNA)
- Assistive Technology
- The provision of Transport for eligible students
- The provision of Escorts for eligible students
- Visiting Teacher service for children with visual impairment, those that are deaf and hard of hearing and deaf blind children
What educational settings are available for your child?
- Mainstream school with supports
- Mainstream special classes
- Special schools
- Home Tuition is available for students in certain circumstances