ABOUT SPECIAL EDUCATION

The Special Education Service provides support throughout the SELB, for pupils with special educational needs. It does so in adherence to statutory obligations and time limits, as set out in legislation.
While the Special Educational Needs and Disability Order (NI) 2005 takes as its starting point, the placement of children with special educational needs in mainstream schools, around 2% of pupils will have special educational difficulties or disabilities which cannot be met from within the normal resources of a mainstream school.

The Service takes responsibility for approximately 2800 Statements of Special Educational Needs. It provides advice, information and support to schools and parents. A range of Support Services, including Specific Learning Difficulties in Literacy, Sensory Impairment, Downs Syndrome, Early Years, Learning Support and Autism Advisory Intervention teams provide support to around 20% of children who require some additional support as well as to children with Statements of Special Educational Needs. Special Education provides such services for children from pre-school age until leaving school.

For more information on the identification and assessment of children with special educational needs click here www.education-support.org.uk.

MISSION STATEMENT 

To provide a range of high quality special education services in partnership with children and young people, their parents, schools and other agencies, throughout the Southern Education and Library Board.

VISION STATEMENT

To promote best practice in the identification and assessment of special educational needs and in the provision available to meet these needs to ensure that all children have the best possible access to inclusive education and the opportunity to reach their full potential.