Schools asked to test new system for special needs pupils

Schools are being asked to volunteer to test a new way of allocating teachers for pupils with special needs.

Education Minister Jan O’Sullivan has decided the scheme will not be ready for full rollout by September. Details have to be finalised for parts of the system, proposed last summer, to provide a fairer way of giving schools extra supports for pupils with special needs.

The principle of ensuring resources are available for children based on needs, replacing a need for children with disabilities to have a professional diagnosis before qualifying for support, has been welcomed by parents, teachers, and education groups.