AQW 13935/22-27 Written question to the Minister of Education
To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of new Specialist Provision in Mainstream Schools places that (i) have been established for September 2024; and (ii) are still required for September 2024.
Asked by Nick Mathison MLA on 28 June 2024
- Answered
- Written
- Tabled
- 28 June 2024
- Answer due by
- 17 July 2024
- Answered
- 16 July 202418 days after tabling
- Department
- Department of Education
- Priority question
- No
Answer
New specialist provision places established for September 2024:
| Specialist Provision Type | No of Classes established | Total Capacity created |
| Learning (SPL) – 10 Primary SPL classes with a capacity of 12; and 11 Post Primary SPL classes with a capacity of 14 | 21 | 274 |
| Social Communication (SPSC) – capacity 8 | 54 | 432 |
| Learning Special (SPEYF) – capacity 8 | 32 | 256 |
| TOTAL | 107 | 962 |
Capacity noted above is an estimate based on all classes operating at full capacity. In reality, class sizes are based on the specific assessed needs of the cohort of pupils and the size of the accommodation.
As of 9 July 2024, 36 children were identified as requiring a place in a specialist provision in a mainstream class who do not yet have a confirmed placement for the new academic year. The Education Authority (EA) is working to resolve this as soon as possible and is engaging with schools and settings to increase capacity and identify solutions across all areas. This work will continue over the summer months and for as long as necessary.