Mitchell welcomes new classes for children with special needs in Dublin South

“This decision was based on evidence that there are an increasing number of children with special educational needs within Dublin South who require access to special classes at primary and post primary level. With a growing population and an increasing demand for school places and teachers, it is only right that those with special needs are properly provided for.

 

“Special classes within mainstream schools offer a lower pupil teacher ratio than mainstream classes and give students the opportunity to be included in mainstream classes for some activities and subjects.

 

“Ballinteer Community School, which already offers two special classes, will, from this month, be in a position to offer a third. This increased number of places will be welcomed by parents of children with special needs, as it offers more choice and means that local children will travel less to access these services.

 

“118 new classes catering for over 700 children with special needs in 113 mainstream primary and post primary schools will open across the country this month. I am delighted that, despite the limited resources available to Government, these new classes have been created and that those most vulnerable in society have continued access to a supported learning environment within their community.