Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow, John Brady, and Bray Sinn Féin Councillor, John Ward, have welcomed progress on the new Edel Quinn School on the Boghall Road in Bray, with refurbishment works now underway and the enrolment process in progress.
The school will cater for children and young people aged between 4 and 18 with autism and complex educational needs with a total of 36 places available, and applications now being accepted until the 25th of August.
Teachta Brady said:
“This school was announced in April and ever since, I have been inundated with parents, as well as Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs), seeking information and clarity.
“I am pleased that we are now seeing real progress, with refurbishment works underway and the enrolment process having begun.
“The Edel Quinn School will be located at St. Fergal’s National School on the Boghall Road in Bray and will cater for children and young people aged between 4 and 18 with autism and complex educational needs.
“The school will have a total of 36 places for the coming year – 12 places for children aged 4 to 8, 12 places for those aged 8 to 12, 6 places for those aged 12 to 15, and 6 places for young people aged 15 to 17.
“The deadline for applications is the 25th of August, and I would encourage parents who are seeking a place for their child to make sure their application is submitted before that date.
“This is an important step forward for families who have been waiting far too long for additional special school places in Wicklow.
“The level of interest in this school has demonstrated the absolute necessity for additional special school provision in the county.
“While there is still work to be completed, seeing the refurbishment works underway and the enrolment process open is welcome progress.
“I will continue to engage with the Minister and the Department to ensure that the remaining work is completed on time and that families have the information and support they need as the school prepares to open.
“Children with additional needs in Wicklow deserve access to the education and supports they need, and this new school will play an important role in delivering that.”
Bray Sinn Féin Councillor John Ward said:
“Parents and families in Bray and across Wicklow have been waiting a long time for additional special school provision, so it is very welcome to see work now underway at the site of the new Edel Quinn School.
“The commencement of refurbishment works is a significant milestone, and the opening of the enrolment process gives parents much needed clarity on how to apply for a place.
“With 36 places available across the six classes, this school will provide a vital service for children and young people with autism and complex educational needs.
“I know there has been considerable interest from families, and I would encourage anyone seeking a place for their child to make sure they are aware of the 25th of August application deadline.
“This is a positive development for Bray and for families across Wicklow who have been crying out for additional special school places.
“We will continue to monitor progress closely and ensure that the needs of children and families remain at the centre of the process as the school prepares to welcome its first pupils.”
ENDS