AQW 4339/09

Mrs Naomi Long
Alliance Party
East Belfast

Tabled Date: 22/01/2009
Answered On Date: 05/02/2009
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Education what consideration is given to the percentage of children with special needs when determining the appropriate class sizes in the planning process for new build primary schools.

Answer:

I am committed to improving provision and outcomes for all children. My proposals relating to the Review of SEN and Inclusion are currently awaiting agreement from the Executive to issue for public consultation.

I am also currently considering a revised version of the Primary School Building Handbook. The current Building Handbook identifies that the size of general classrooms in new build primary schools are 60m² which is to cater for all children in the class. A shared resource area of 40m², is also provided which can be used by the school for a wide range of educational activities. In addition, a small group room is provided which can be used for special needs tuition.

Is féidir le húdarás scoile moltaí a thabhairt don roinn le go ndéanfaidh sí breithniú orthu, má chreideann an túdarás scoile go bhfuil imthosca ar leith ag an scoil nach mór a chur san áireamh.

A school authority can also raise proposals with the department for consideration if it believes it has particular circumstances which need to be taken into account.

From the 2008/09 school year I have made available substantial additional funding to support primary schools with the delivery of the Foundation Stage of the revised curriculum. This is providing all Year 1 and Year 2 pupils with access to classroom assistance for the first time and will help to give our youngest primary pupils the best start to their education.