Meath to receive six additional special classes for next school year
The allocation of six special classes for Meath has been confirmed for the upcoming school year.
The announcement was made this week forms part of the first tranche of new special classes nationwide, with a record number set to open for the 2026/27 school year.
In total, 68 classes have been allocated to 159 schools.
The announcement was welcomed by Fianna Fáil TD for Meath East and spokesperson on children, Aisling Dempsey.
She said the additional resources would bring significant benefits to students, teachers, and parents.
“These additional resources will have enormous benefits for students, teachers and parents,” Deputy Dempsey said.
She also said that “everybody is entitled to an education,” and every child should have “an equal opportunity to succeed.”
The six new classes in County Meath will be provided across Athboy Community School, Enfield Community College, Baconstown NS in Longwood, Ard Rí Community National School in Navan, O’Carolan College in Nobber, and Ratoath College, across primary and post-primary schools.
Ms Dempsey highlighted the importance of "early clarity” for families, adding that earlier announcements benefit both parents and schools.
“In 2026 alone, over €3 billion will be invested in supporting students with additional needs, including additional special education teachers and special needs assistants,” she added.
Fianna Fáil Minister for Special Education, Michael Moynihan said this year will see the “greatest ever number” of new special classes sanctioned for September 2026.
"I’ve been working with my party colleagues to ensure there is no stone left unturned as we support all children with additional needs,” he said.
“This is the first of several tranches to be announced over the coming weeks, months earlier than last year, ensuring parents know much sooner what school their children will attend next September. It also gives schools much more time to plan and prepare.”