AQW 13935/22-27
Mr Nick Mathison
Alliance Party
Strangford
Tabled Date: 28/06/2024
Answered On Date: 16/07/2024
Priority Written: No
Question:
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.
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.
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