New purpose-built special educational needs accommodation for Birr school

A Birr school has announced that funding has been secured for additional Special Educational Needs accommodation.

The Board of Management of St Brendan’s PS has announced that the Department of Education has approved the project to proceed to the construction stage.

The Board thanked Minister for Education Helen McEntee and her predecessor Norma Foley for their support.

The Board also thanked the Devolved Projects section staff in Department of Education capital buildings unit for their support and advice.

A statement from the school said: "The Design team under architect Kenny Lyons and Associates will now plan for the build with contractor whilst ensuring that our school continues its good work on a daily basis.

"Our school community can look forward to the start of this exciting construction of SEN rooms and Autism classes which will enable children and staff to work in the most modern setting available and will greatly enhance the teaching and learning environments for all concerned," the statement added.

School Principal Niall Crofton expressed delight that the plans for this extension, which has been in the pipeline for the past five years, are now reaching fruition.

He added that the project would greatly enhance the facilities that the school provides for the needs of all students in the community, and also underline the school's commitment, through its mission statement, to ensure all pupils get an opportunity to reach their potential.

Chairperson of the Board of Management Pat Teehan expressed delight at the announcement and thanked the Principal Niall Crofton and the staff for their dedication and commitment in providing an education, for so many children with additional needs whilst waiting for this new purpose-built accommodation.