The Abbey School, an Edmund Rice School, in Tipperary Town has always strived to promote an ethos based upon inclusivity and education for all. In September 2023, a special class for students, with an autism diagnosis, was established to provide a structured and supportive environment for students. This allows those students to have access to mainstream classes in a manner suited to each individual student. The provision of Special Education Support is well established in The Abbey School
The Board of Management of the school acknowledge the support offered by the Department of Education in providing two well equipped spacious areas for students; and also for training and advice which was provided by the National Council for Special Education. The school recently celebrated the Official Opening of these Tearmainn classrooms with the significance of the name being sanctuary as Gaeilge.
The Tearmainn classrooms are designed to be sensory-friendly environments with an additional outdoor space and are a great addition to the campus of The Abbey School.
The educational provision in the Tearmainn classroom is supported by teachers who have engaged in continuous professional development gaining skills which allow them to create an inclusive and supportive setting which fosters learning, independence and social growth for students in the class. The teaching staff are supported in their role by an SNA team who assist our students in accessing the curriculum both within and beyond the special class.
The overall management of the classes is the responsibility of the SEN Coordinator Kay O’Dwyer, a key professional, who oversees the provision and support for all students in the school with Special Educational needs.
Principal David Sadleir feels the “development is very positive for the entire school community and has provided insight and understanding around barriers to accessing education across the entire school”.
The opening of the second Tearmainn class was recently sanctioned and places are available. Further information can be obtained by contacting the school office on 062-52299 or info@abbeyschool.ie.
