Four new special education classes granted to Mayo schools

FOUR new special education classes have been sanctioned by the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) for schools across Mayo, Minister of State Alan Dillon has confirmed.

The schools who will have extra classrooms for those with autism/autism spectrum disorders are: Swinford National School, Scoil Phádraig, Westport, and two classes at Ballyvary Central NS, Castlebar.

Said Minister Dillon: “Nationally, 209 new special classes have been sanctioned for the 2025/26 school year. It is intended that more classes will be confirmed once engagement between the NCSE and school patron bodies has concluded in order to reach the target of 400 extra special needs classes.

"The allocation of four additional special needs classes in our schools across the county is a testament to our commitment to inclusive education.

“We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive in an environment that understands and supports their unique needs. These classes will provide tailored support to students, fostering an environment where every child can reach their full potential.”

Minister Dillon said he will continue to work with the schools to ensure the extra classrooms are up and running for the new school term in August/September.

“The Mayo schools will proceed to the admission process by working with the NCSE to ensure they offer more places to students over the coming weeks,” he added.