Our Lady of Hope Special School in Crumlin officially opened

The Our Lady of Hope Special School in Crumlin was officially opened today by Minister for Education Norma Foley TD and Minister of State for Special Education and Inclusion Josepha Madigan TD.

The school first opened its doors to students for the start of the 2021/2022 school year to meet rising demand for special school places in the area.

The schools currently caters for 36 pupils with autism and general learning disabilities, many of whom were in mainstream schools or receiving education under the home tuition scheme.

The enrolment is due to increase by a further 12 places to a total of 48 for the 2022/2023 school year, following completion of building works.

The school currently has five class teachers and twelve special needs assistants.

The Ministers met with school principal Sr Edel Murphy, Mons Dan O’Connor and Archbishop Dermot Farrell during the official opening and blessing of the school.

Minister Foley said: “I am delighted to be able to attend this significant occasion for Our Lady of Hope Special School along with Archbishop Dermot Farrell.

“Special schools play an important role in our education system and I want to wish every success to Sr Edel Murphy and all her staff and pupils on this special day for the school.”