History
Our History
The National Council for Special Education was established to enhance the provision of educational services for individuals with special educational needs arising from disabilities, with a particular emphasis on supporting children.
Initially founded as an independent statutory body by order of the Minister for Education and Science in December 2003, the NCSE was formally established under the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act 2004 (EPSEN Act) on 1st October 2005.
The EPSEN Act outlines both the general functions of the Council and its specific responsibilities in implementing the provisions of the Act, ensuring that the rights and educational needs of students with disabilities are effectively addressed.
Functions of the Council
The general functions of the Council as set out in Section 20 of the EPSEN Act may be summarised as follows.
– Planning and co-ordinating provision of education and support services to children with special educational needs.
– Disseminating information on best practice concerning the education of children with special educational needs.
– Providing information to parents in relation to the entitlements of children with special educational needs.
– Assessing and reviewing resources required by children with special educational needs.
– Ensuring that progress of students with special educational needs is monitored and reviewed.
– Reviewing education provision for adults with disabilities.
– Advising educational institutions on best practice.
– Consulting with voluntary bodies.
– Advising the Minister for Education and Skills on matters relating to special education.
– Conducting research and publishing findings.
In addition, the Council has specific functions in relation to the core provisions of the Act, such as assessment and individual education plans.
In carrying out its functions under the Act, the Council is required to consult directly with stakeholders as necessary, and to establish a formal national Consultative Forum representative of all stakeholders.
Upon its establishment under the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act, 2004, the Councils immediate task was to prepare and submit an Implementation Report to the Minister for Education and Science by 1st October 2006. This Implementation Report was submitted to the Minister and is available in the Publications section of the website.
Operational Independence
The Council has varying degrees of independence in executing its functions. It must operate within the current policy parameters issued by the Minister for Education and Skills when implementing current policy. We also have to abide by provisions relating to the level of supports and/or resources available in particular situations.
In the areas of research and advice to the Minister, the Council is free to engage in research it deems necessary and to advise the Minister on the basis of this research and the experience gained from implementing current policies.
Communication
One of the core principles of the Council is transparency and openness. We welcome your views and feedback. As this website continues to develop, we hope it will provide a wide range of useful information relating to education provision for children with disabilities.
