June 27, 2023, Belfast Telegraph: Education is failing vulnerable children https://m.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/opinion/viewpoint/education-is-failing-vulnerable-children/a17855289.html
There’s only one way to say it, Northern Ireland is failing its most vulnerable children.
Over 800 families of children with special educational needs are still awaiting confirmation of places in nursery and primary schools. There are only three days to go before the end of the current term.
Eight long weeks lie ahead for parents left in limbo, not knowing where their children have been placed, unless decisions are made by the end of this week.
And even if they get those decisions from the Education Authority, what chance is there that the places will be able to provide the appropriate support needed?
There is an awful lot going wrong in education in NI and the signs are that things are only going to get worse….
Parents are being left with decisions to make that they should not have to be making. Some are considering trying to work three-day weeks so they can help to look after their children at home. Some are considering career breaks to be there to support their children in the absence of an appropriate educational setting. Some don’t have that luxury and have nowhere else to turn.
Just a few of the stories of everyday struggles were told to MLAs at Stormont yesterday. By the end of the week there will be another decision to make if the situation has not been clarified. Is legal action on grounds that their children are being discriminated against the only remaining option?
Parents should not have to fight for the right to an education for their child, and an education that fits the needs of that child.
All children have the ability to achieve and deserve the chance to do that.
Whatever happens this week, whether those parents who spoke so passionately and emotionally at Stormont yesterday get what they need in the end, no other parents should have to fight as hard in the future.
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