Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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In 2018, the NCSE was asked by the then Minister to advise on the educational provision that should be in place for students in special schools and classes and to make recommendations on the provision required to enable them achieve better outcomes. The Minister requested that the NCSE examine whether there is local, or international, evidence that placement in specialist settings brings about improved educational outcomes and experiences for students with special educational needs.

In November 2019, the NCSE published its progress report on the work to date including (some) preliminary analysis of emerging findings from the consultation and research strands, which underpins NCSE policy advice. This report includes reviews of special education needs provision in Ireland, the UK and other jurisdictions.

The completion of this advice paper and its publication was delayed, mainly due to the pressures on the educational system brought about by the Covid 19 pandemic. The NCSE final report on this policy advice is expected to be finalised and submitted by the NCSE to the Department by the end of 2022. It will inform the Department in relation to making decisions about the future direction of special education policy in the coming years, including in relation to special school and special class provision. Consultation will take place with education partners, disability representative organisations, and parental representatives before any changes are made.