Common application system for children applying for special schools to be introduced

The 2025 summer programme is designed for children and young people with special educational needs and those at risk of educational disadvantage. File picture: Sam Boal

The minister for educaton is planning to introduce a common application system for children applying for special classes or schools.

Currently, most families apply to many schools in the hopes of securing a place and the process can be incredibly stressful.

On Thursday, the Minister for Education and Youth Helen McEntee plans to launch the 2025 summer programme.

The programme, formerly known as July provision, is designed for children and young people with special educational needs and those at risk of educational disadvantage.

Speaking in the Dáil this week, Ms McEntee said the introduction of a common application system for children applying for special classes or for special schools has the potential to be a "game changer" for parents.

Minister for Education Helen McEntee will launch the initiative.

She also highlighted how the rate of absenteeism in schools has increased significantly since the covid-19 lockdowns.

“The proportion of children in primary schools missing more than 20 days has doubled since the pandemic," she said, adding that she is "determined” to reverse this trend.

“There are many complex reasons why children don’t attend school, and tackling this requires a real partnership approach of school, home, and community supports, listening to our children and young people.” 

The minister is expected to also outline her priorities for the department.

These include opening additional special schools and classes, and tackling educational disadvantage, including improving outcomes for children from areas of high deprivation.