Pupils with autism may be rejected by school

ONE of the country’s most inclusive schools may have to end access for pupils with more serious disabilities after cuts to care supports for children with autism.

St Senan’s Primary School in Enniscorthy, Co Wexford, has been told that appeals against the withdrawal of six special needs assistants (SNAs) could not be considered — eight months after they were lodged.

The school has a waiting list for its three special classes for children with autism, which opened more than six years ago. Department of Education policy suggests a ratio of two SNAs for each class of six children with autism, but additional support may be sanctioned if children have other care needs.