Admissions to Special Classes

Timeline

Admissions Process Indicative Timeline 2025/26: 

Circular 39/25

Circular 39/25 details the Approach and key measures to support the Forward Planning for Special Education Provision for the 2026/2027 school year and beyond

Further to Circular 39/25 a Guidance Note was issued, following on from the publication of the Department of Education and Youth’s Inspectorate Report Supporting all children and young people to access an appropriate education: A review of the admission policies of primary and post-primary special classes for autistic children and young people.

This information note provides additional information to ensure compliance with the requirements of the inspectorate report and circular letter 0039/2025 and must be applied by patron bodies, boards of management, and all mainstream schools with special classes and special schools. 

ACCS Info Bulletin 13/25

ACCS Info Bulletin 13/25 details the approach and key measures to support the Forward Planning for special education provision for the 2026/2027 school year and beyond.

Changes required to schools admissions policies

The Department of Education wishes to bring to the attention of school authorities changes that are required to the schools Admissions Statement following the commencement of the Education (Provision in Respect of Children with Special Educational Needs) Act 2022.

The template Draft Letter seeking Patron’s approval for amending school’s admission policy (appendix A) is attached here