Cllr highlights critical gap in SEN supports

A local councillor has set out a series of proposals to address how many primary school children with special educational needs (SEN) or medical conditions begin school without the support of an assistant, despite being identified requiring help.

The delay, says Fianna Fáil’s Áine Smith, leaves a critical gap during a child’s early education, placing strain on families, educators, and most importantly, the child themselves.

Speaking at the July monthly meeting of Cavan County Council, Cllr Smith highlighted how the transitional period into primary school is particularly formative, and that a lack of support at this crucial stage can have long-lasting impacts on a child’s academic and emotional development.

“Despite the best intentions of schools and educational staff, this delay can create significant challenges for both the child, parents and their educators, particularly during such an important and formative time in the child’s educational journey,” she said noting too that even when SNA support is provided in primary school, it often does not follow the child into secondary school because resources are allocated to schools rather than the individual student.

Demanding an urgent review and a revision of the system, Cllr Smith explained that her policy places “continuity of SNA support” to the fore with the early and timely appointment of SNAs for all children identified before they enter primary school, and a simplified and accelerated process for SNA allocation also.

She furthermore wants to see a continuity in SNA support across all stages of education, and a collaborative transition planning between schools, parents, and professionals to ensure uninterrupted care and support. To add value to the scheme, there will be clear communication and guidelines for families and schools on how to access and retain SNA supports once granted.

“I am calling on the Department of Education, the National Council for Special Education and all relevant stakeholders to prioritise the appointment and continuity of SNA support for children with special educational and medical needs. This should not only apply during the primary years but also continue seamlessly into secondary school, ensuring that children receive the necessary care and assistance throughout their entire educational journey,” Cllr Smith told the meeting.

Her motion was seconded by party colleague Patricia Walsh who said that everyone recognises that there is a “gap” in terms of the progress of provision. As a result, many children with support can feel “isolated” in the transition to secondary and that his can affect their integration into mainstream education.

Sinn Féin’s Stiofán Conaty also backed the plans, as did Fine Gael’s Trevor Smith who described it as a “worthy motion”.

There was support too from Fine Gael’s Carmel Brady and Niamh Brady as well as Independent Brendan Fay, with support also from Cathaoirleach John Paul Feeley.