Special Classes
Special Classes
What are Special Classes?
Special classes are part of a continuum of educational provision that enables students with more complex special educational needs to be educated, in smaller class groups, within their local mainstream schools. They offer a supportive learning environment to students who are unable to access the curriculum in a mainstream class, even with support, for most or all of their school day. Students enrolled in special classes should be included in mainstream classes to the greatest extent possible, in line with their abilities.
Special classes are established following engagement between the NCSE, schools, and families of children with special educational needs, as well as other relevant stakeholders including school patrons, management bodies, and the Department of Education.
Special Classes
Special Class Guidelines and Application forms
This section contains Special Class Guidelines for Principals and Boards of Management.
It also contains forms relating to management of Special Classes and applications for SNA Support, School Transport and Assistive Technology.
Special Classes
Guidelines for Setting Up and Organising Special Classes
These guidelines give information and guidance to schools on the setting up and organisation of NCSE-sanctioned special classes in mainstream primary and post-primary schools.
They are based on principles of good practice and Boards of Management are requested to take due cognisance of them when setting up, staffing and organising special classes in their schools.
These guidelines should be read in conjunction with the NCSE Transition Guidelines
Special Classes
List of Mainstream Schools with Special Classes
Each year, the NCSE publishes a list of Mainstream Primary and Post-Primary schools with Special Classes.