Two new Autism classes

THE Minister of Education and Skills Richard Bruton has said his Department has “no role” in processing applications for enrolment to schools for children with autism.

In a letter to Sligo County Council, Minister Bruton said there are currently two special schools and 17 special classes in mainstream schools.

The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has sanctioned two new Autism Spectrum Disorder classes at both primary and post-primary level which were due to open this month.

The NCSE has advised parents of children with autism to enrol their child by applying in writing to the school of their choice as early as possible.

Minister Bruton acknowledged that the provision of special classes in some schools and communities in recent years has been “challenging.”

Parents who cannot enrol their child are urged to contact their local Special Ed Needs Organisers network.