The school’s Christian ethos is committed to providing an inclusive environment, recognising the diversity of our school community and catering for the needs of all of our students. As per our school admission policy, St. Jarlath’s College welcomes students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) and endeavours to “provide that the education of people with such needs shall wherever possible take place in an inclusive environment” (Education for Persons with Special Needs Act 2004).
The school aspires to a whole school approach to the inclusion of students with Special Educational Needs (SEN), providing effective teaching methodologies, pastoral support, inclusive curricula and a holistic approach to learning. The school unequivocally supports the principles of equality of access and participation for all.
Exemptions from Irish
- Incoming first years with Irish exemptions are noted. Their Certificate of Exemption accompanies their application form and is stored in their student file. Withdrawal for Learning Support is arranged for students who do not study Irish, during Irish class time. New exemptions from Irish are granted by the Principal in line with Department of Education regulations.
Special Classes
- The special classes accommodate students who have a diagnosis of autism.
- The role of the special classes is to provide a nurturing and encouraging environment wherein students can develop core skills and competencies at a pace that is suited to their specific needs.
- The special classes provide a life skills-based curriculum through the delivery of an individualised programme appropriate to each student’s needs. This means providing support in acquiring personal, social, literacy and numeracy skills that will enable students of the special classes to function as independently as possible in the wider society.
- Inclusion and equity are at the core of the special classes therefore, teachers and support staff will aim to create opportunities for inclusion by; encouraging students to participate in mainstream classes, integration at dispersal times, assembly and whole school events.
- The special classes will strive to ensure that all students who are members of this class experience success in relation to their individual talents and abilities.