Cork special school planned to cut student days amid ‘critical’ staffing crisis

St Gabriel’s Special School in Bishopstown says an SNA shortage has created unsafe conditions

St. Gabriel's Special School caters to students aged four to 18 with severe intellectual disabilities, including those with autism and complex needs. Picture: Denise Minihane

A Cork special school had planned to put students on reduced timetables from Monday due to critical staff shortages, it has emerged.

The move by St Gabriel's Special School in Bishopstown only paused at the last minute after last ditch "meaningful" engagement with the Department of Education and National Council for Special Education (NCSE).