Laois schools boosted by new special classrooms

Facilities for pupils with special educational needs in two Laois schools look set to be improved thanks to new classrooms being approved by the Minister for Education.

St Patrick’s National School in Ballylinan and the nearby Arles National School have each been approved for a Special Educational Needs classroom.

Approval has been given by the Minister for Education Norma Foley, for both schools to proceed with the redesigning/renovating of existing rooms to accommodate a class for students with special educational needs.

Providing that the appropriate space is available in Arles National School, a sensory room may also be added.

Seán Fleming, Laois TD and Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs, said he was pleased with the approvals.

"I am pleased that this has been approved today by the Government. Providing these much-needed classrooms is very welcome news for local families, the school and staff, and the pupils concerned and the entire school community.

"I want to compliment the schools’ management and all those involved for all their work in progressing these projects to this stage," he said.

Minister Fleming added that education and special education is a priority for Fianna Fáil in Government, and providing new additional classrooms and learning spaces for children with special needs is part of this.