Three Offaly schools to receive new classes for children with special educational needs

Three schools in Offaly will have new classes in the 2026/2027 academic years to support children with special educational needs, Local TD John Clendennen has confirmed.

The Fine Gael TD said the additional classes will be key to continue supporting children with special educational needs and their families in the Faithful County.

The three schools receiving a new special class each, as part of this announcement, are Mercy Primary School in Birr, Rhode National School and St Colman’s National School (Cappagh NS) in Tullamore.

The new classes are in addition to the six previously announced for Offaly in early January. They were allocated to Banagher College, St Brendan's Boys Primary School in Birr, Durrow National School, Tullamore Educate Together NS, Coláiste Choilm and Tullamore College.

READ NEXT: Beannachtaí Lá Fhéile Phádraig theme of St Patrick's Day parade in Tullamore

Speaking on the announcement, Deputy Clendennen commented: "This is very welcome news for students, teachers and parents right across Offaly and is in addition to the six special classes announced earlier this month. This is an important step in ensuring that children with additional needs can continue to learn and thrive in an inclusive setting in their school.

The provision of these additional special education classes will have a hugely positive impact on children with special educational needs and their families here in Offaly."

The addition of the classes are part of the €3 billion in funding for special education through the Budget 2026 marking the largest funding provision in this area in recent years. 

This increased funding will allow schools recruit additional teaching and SNA staff to provide another 3,000 new special class and special school places.

John Clendennen TD continued: "I’m delighted to see that three schools in Offaly will now have an additional class for 2026/27. This announcement will provide clarity for parents and schools alike and ensure planning can begin for the setting up of these classes."

He also assured: "The Minister for Education and Youth, Hildegarde Naughton and Fine Gael are committed to inclusive education and ensuring every child with special educational needs receives the support they deserve."