Legal powers to force schools to establish autism classes, minister told

Legal powers should be created to force schools to set up special classes for children with autism, TDs and senators told Education Minister Richard Bruton.

Families of pupils with autism attending autism units at mainstream primary schools have reported increasing difficulties securing places in secondary schools in recent years, as there is no obligation on schools to set up such classes.

In its report on Mr Bruton’s School Admissions Bill, the Oireachtas Education Committee recommends the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) be allowed to intervene.