(IRELAND) Offaly to get 6 new special classes; 25% of students have special needs

Jan 15, 2026, Independent: Offaly to receive six new classes for children with special educational needs

https://m.independent.ie/regionals/offaly/news/offaly-to-receive-six-new-classes-for-children-with-special-educational-needs/a1956149804.html#

Six new special classes will be introduced to schools in Offaly in the 2026/2027 academic years to support children with special educational needs.

The announcement this week forms part of the first tranche of new special classes nationwide, with a record number set to open for the upcoming school year.

The Department of Education has confirmed the approval of 168 new special classes nationally, across 159 schools. . . ..

The news has been welcomed by Offaly TD John Clendennen, who said the additional classes are a “significant step” to supporting children with special educational needs and their families in Offaly.

“There has been a very significant growth in demand for special school and special class places in recent years.

“This is an estimated 25% of the total student population, or 240,000 children and young people with special educational needs, that are supported in mainstream classes,” Mr Clendennen said.

Budget 2026 provides over €3 billion [$3.5B]in funding for special education. This increased funding will allow schools recruit additional teaching and SNA staff to provide another 3,000 new special class and special school places.

“The provision of these additional special education classes will have a hugely positive impact on children with special educational needs and their families here in Offaly,” Mr Clendennen said.