1234. Deputy Jen Cummins asked the Minister for Education and Youth the reason eight schools which were listed on the NCSE website on 1 July 2026 as being sanctioned for an autism inclusion class have had their class type changed to a standard autism class; and what is a standard autism class. [61548/26]

The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is the statutory body responsible for the provision of special education and allocating supports for students with special educational needs.

In relation to the matter raised by the Deputy the NCSE have advised my department that the eight schools mentioned by the Deputy were listed incorrectly on the NCSE website. This error has now been amended to the correct designation of autism-inclusion classes. The NCSE and my department apologise for any confusion caused by this error.

Inclusive special classes are a new approach to supporting students with additional needs which builds on good practice that helps students with additional needs learn alongside other students in mainstream classes, while also having time during the day to receive extra support in a special class. This approach formalises good practices already in place in many schools and aligns with national policy developments on inclusive education.

Inclusive special classes help more students attend their local schools while still getting the support they need. Students can move between mainstream classes and special classes depending on what support they need at any time. This approach reflects the demand from schools across the country for more flexible and inclusive ways to support students with additional needs.

My department and the NCSE are committed to delivering an education system that is of the highest quality and where every child and young person feels valued and is actively supported and nurtured to achieve their full potential.