Northside school to feature in TV documentary about lack of additonal autism classes

The campaign for additional autism classes at Stapolin Educate Together National School in Baldoyle will feature on Crisis in the Classroom, a Virgin Media documentary with Eric Roberts.

Stapolin ETNS are going into their second year campaigning for additional autism classes to meet the needs in the area.

 Last year, the response from the Department on this matter was that the school needed to use any existing space available, however the documentary shows that all available space is being used – down to cupboards and stairwells being converted into SET rooms.

Principal Clodagh Farrell said, “unfortunately we didn’t receive the sanction last year. We’re into a new school year now, and we still have a significant number of children on our waiting list for an autism class place. We’re very committed to finding a positive way forward and want to work collaboratively with the Department of Education, the NCSE and all relevant agencies to make sure these children can access the education and support they need.”

 Samantha O’Flanagan, an SNA at Stapolin ETNS and one of those who features in the documentary, said, “we absolutely adore our school and the children we work with. We see first-hand the difference that the right supports and environment can make. Securing the sanction for the additional classes would make such a positive difference to our school and to the children and families waiting for a place.”

 The campaign has consistently called for a practical solution for Stapolin, including the provision of two modular classrooms, allowing the school to meet the identified need in the area.

 The appearance on Crisis in the Classroom comes as concerns continue nationally about the availability of suitable school places for autistic children, despite government announcements of additional autism classes.

 “For the Stapolin campaign, the issue is ultimately about ensuring that children in a rapidly growing community are not left without access to an appropriate education close to home,” the campaigners said.

Crisis in the Classroom airs on Monday, 28th September at 9pm on Virgin Media One and Virgin Media PLAY.