Schools’ special needs units performing well

Chief Inspector of the Education and Training Inspectorate, Stanley Goudie, has highlighted the strong performance of special educational needs (SEN) units in local primary and post-primary schools.

Mr Goudie was speaking following the publication of an evaluation report examining 56 primary and 33 post-primary SEN units across Northern Ireland.

Mr Goudie said: “Around 1,800 local children with moderate learning difficulties are catered for in units attached to mainstream primary and post-primary schools. The Inspectorate found that most pupils achieve well in this environment, thanks to high quality teaching and support combined with good breadth and balance in curriculum delivery.

“A crucial benefit of such units is that they stand alongside mainstream schools. This means that pupils with moderate learning difficulties are able to integrate into mainstream classes in some subjects. Our review found the quality of these integration experiences to be positive in the majority of cases.”

Mr Goudie continued: “Although the findings are broadly positive, the Inspectorate has also identified some areas for improvement for both schools and authorities. School Development Plans do not, in many cases, incorporate strategic planning for SEN units. With greater consideration of units, schools should work towards seeking out more opportunities for pupil integration and also increased collaboration with special schools.

“There is also the potential for better staff development to help and support teachers in working effectively with the increased needs of pupils in units. It is important that the Department of Education and Education and Library Boards aim to ensure that these issues are addressed in the implementation of its policy proposals, The Way Forward for Special Needs and Inclusion.”

Notes to editors:

1. The report is available online at the Education and Training Inspectorate website.
2. Media enquiries to the Department of Education Press Office Tel: 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours, contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 99 715 440, and your call will be returned.