O’Dowd approves proposal to establish Autistic Spectrum Disorder classes at St Brigid’s College, Derry

Education Minister, John O’Dowd, has approved the establishment of Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) classes for Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 pupils at St Brigid’s College, Derry.

Commenting on his decision, the Minister said:

“Making this decision will provide pupils with Autistic Spectrum Disorder the opportunity to access and benefit from professional expertise in a mainstream setting. This specialist provision will have long term benefits for pupils in the Derry City area and wider Western Region.

 Over the coming months, I will expect the Education Authority to work closely with St Brigid’s College. I want to take this opportunity to wish everyone connected with the school continued success with their work in this area.”

Notes to editors: 

1. St Brigid’s College is an all ability 11-18 co-educational post-primary school.
2. The Education Authority published Development Proposal No 269 on 31 March 2015 proposing the establishment of Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) classes for Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 at the school from September 2015 or as soon as possible thereafter.
3. The Department of Education’s ‘Education Works’ campaign promotes the value of education. This year’s campaign aims to ensure that parents have information on schooling and that they are aware of the steps they can take to ‘Get Involved’ and support their teenager in achieving good outcomes at school. Watch out for the ads on television, radio and outdoor locations. The campaign highlights the vital role families can play in helping children do well at school and improve their life chances. Visit nidirect for more information or watch the TV ad on the Department’s YouTube channel.
4. See photos from the Department of Education in our Flickr collection 
5. Media enquiries to the Department of Education Press Office Tel: 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours, contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 99 715 440, and your call will be returned.

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