New special education class granted to Leitrim school

Six new special education classes have been established across Leitrim and Sligo for the 2025/2026 academic year.

In Leitrim, a newly dedicated special education class will be set up at Drumcong NS, catering to students with autism and autism spectrum disorders.

The class can accommodate six students, supported by one teacher and two special needs assistants.

Leitrim currently has 32 special education classes across 14 primary and secondary schools.

In Sligo, the schools receiving new special education classes include Scoil Naomh Molaise in Grange, Scoil Ursula, Gaelscoil Chnoc na Ré, and Mercy College in Sligo.

These developments are being carried out in close collaboration with the National Council for Special Education (NCSE), which will work closely with school patron bodies to ensure a smooth transition and effective implementation.

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Sligo-Leitrim TD and Minister of State Marian Harkin has welcomed the addition of special education classes, calling it “significant” and describing it as an important step forward for children with special needs and their families in the region.

“The addition of these special classes is vital for ensuring children with special needs receive the necessary educational supports,” said Deputy Harkin.

“Their integration within mainstream schools also means that they can participate in some activities alongside their peers, fostering a more inclusive learning environment.”

She also encouraged schools to move forward with their admissions process, stating, “It is important that schools press ahead with their admissions process. The NCSE has been asked to engage them so that places can be offered to students in the coming weeks.”

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