New special school announced for Crumlin this September

Dublin People 22 Dec 2020

A new special school located on the grounds of the former Scoil Colm in Crumlin will be established this coming September.

The school will accommodate dozens of children with conditions such as autism and learning difficulties.

The school will be located on the campus of the old school and will initially enrol at least 35 pupils.

Minister for Education Norma Foley and Minister of State with responsibility for special education Josepha Madigan made the announcement in December.

It is understood that Archbishop of Dublin Dr Diarmuid Martin has agreed to patron the school, which will operate in parallel with another special school, Scoil Eoin.

The long-term plan is to develop a single campus for the special education schools in the coming years.

Parents of special-needs children in the south Dublin area who have campaigned for additional special school places say they now “have been heard.”

Margaret Lowndes and Helen Holmes, lead organisers of the D12 campaign, said it was “fantastic to have Ministers uphold the constitutional rights of our children.”

“We are over the moon at the announcement.

“We have campaigned for two years tirelessly and relentlessly to ensure the educational needs of the many families in Dublin 12 and across south Dublin are met.

“Today we can say we have been heard.

“We look forward to children packing their school bags and crossing the doors of Scoil Colm finally.”

Deputy Madigan says she was delighted to announce the establishment of the new school.

“This is a much-needed development which will help to meet the demand for special school places in the area.

“As Minister of State for special education, I am determined to support students and families in securing school places where they are needed.

“I know this can be a difficult process, and I want to make it as easy as possible.”

“There has been a shortage of special school places in the South Dublin area this year. Many students who should have a special school place were unable to secure one.

“This has impacted on their lives and the lives of their families.

“This new school will increase the number of places available for students in the area and allow students to receive a full education appropriate to their needs.

“This has impacted on their lives and the lives of their families. This new school will increase the number of places available for students in the area and allow students to receive a full education appropriate to their needs.”

Local councillor Carly Bailey said it was “fantastic news for the community.”

“Huge congratulations to MJ, Helen and all the parents of D12 Asd parent support group who have campaigned for the last two years for this!

“Credit to the ministers for listening and recognising the value of this school and all those who have supported it. Support came from across the political spectrum.

“Can’t wait to see it open!”

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