Setting up a Special Class (ASD) in your School - Post Primary

Students with special educational needs should, where possible, be educated in mainstream classes along with their peers, with additional supports provided as necessary. Special classes are part of a continuum of educational provision that enables students with more complex special educational needs to be educated, in smaller class groups, within their local mainstream schools. (NCSE 2016)

This course will cover what challenges students with ASD face in our schools and the benefits that a Special Class can bring to these students and to the whole school community. It will outline the steps involved in setting up an ASD Class, from both the management side and Class Coordinators point of view, as well as some considerations for schools who are making this positive move in response to evolving needs in their school.

Facilitators: Orlaigh Kent & Rachel O'Connor

Orlaigh Kent is ASD Class co-ordinator in Ramsgrange Community School. She has previously worked as SENCO for many years and has completed Postgraduate Diplomas in Leadership, School Planning, SEN and ASD. She is passionate about raising awareness of autism and the unique strengths and abilities that autistic students have which add to the richness of the school community. Rachel O' Connor is the Principal of Ramsgrange Community School.