'Important step in building a more inclusive school system'

Among the newly sanctioned classes are six additional inclusive special classes, to ensure that children can access appropriate supports within their local school communities.

A new ASD class has been sanctioned for Scoil Mhuire in Carrick-on-Shannon, Leitrim. It's among 32 special classes to be established in mainstream schools for the 2026/27 academic year.

Among the newly sanctioned classes are six additional inclusive special classes, to ensure that children can access appropriate supports within their local school communities.

The tranche brings the total number of new special classes approved to date to 464.

Welcoming the announcement, Sligo/Leitrim Minister Marian Harkin said: “This continued investment in special education provision reflects our determination to ensure that every child has access to an education that meets their needs. The addition of these 32 special classes, including six inclusive special classes, is another important step in building a more inclusive school system.

I am particularly pleased to see schools such as Magh Ene College in Bundoran, Scoil Mhuire in Carrick-on-Shannon, and Scoil Chríost Rí in Enniscrone included in this tranche. These schools play a vital role in their communities, and this additional capacity will make a real difference to students and families in those areas.

We are working to ensure that children can attend school in their local communities with the supports they need to thrive, and today’s announcement is a strong reflection of that commitment.”

The Department of Education will continue to work closely with school communities, patrons, and education partners to ensure that these new classes are established and operational in time for the 2026/27 school year.