School-Based SupportsClass TeacherThe first line of support for a dyslexic student is the class teacher. The class teacher has an important role to play in being aware and considerate of each student's strengths and weaknesses. They may also be able to give some additional support in the regular classroom to students with learning difficulties. Learning Support TeacherStudents with SLD/Dyslexia, which is not severe enough to qualify for Resource teaching or a Special Reading School/Unit, may receive supplementary support in their school from the Learning Support teacher, formerly called the Remedial teacher. This help is usually in a small group setting, and is organised on a withdrawal basis from the regular class. Generally students whose reading and spelling falls below the 12th percentile, but above the 2nd percentile, are entitled to help from the Learning Support teacher. Special Education Circular 02/05 (WORD document) can be downloaded here for further information on the organisation of teaching resources for pupils who need additional support in mainstream primary schools. Resource TeacherResource teaching is specialised one-to-one tuition which is available to students who have been diagnosed by a psychologist with a specific learning disability, who have average or above average intelligence, and whose basic skills in reading, writing or maths fall at or below the 2nd percentile. The maximum number of hours of resource teaching available to such students is 2.5 hours per week, i.e. one 30 minute class per day. Students who are above the 2nd percentile are the responsibility of the Learning Support and/or the Class teacher. Resource teaching is only offered to such students at second level, as at primary level students with dyslexia, under the new general allocation system, are catered for within the school by the Learning Support teacher, as part of the schools allocated special education teaching hours. Reading SchoolsThe special reading schools are full-time national schools, provided by the Dept. of Education and Science and so are free of charge. The regular school curriculum is followed, with the exception of Irish. The current Pupil-Teacher ratio is 11:1 in these classes, though it is to be reduced to 9:1 shortly. Children usually attend for one to two years only and then return to their own school. It can be difficult to secure a place in these schools. Application must be made by the psychologist who assessed the child, supported by a recommendation from the child's own school. The usual criterion for admission to a special reading school is average/above average intelligence, and a significant discrepancy between intellectual ability and literacy levels. The pupil should have completed 2nd class or be at least 8 years old and not more than 12 years old. Applications should normally be made before March. The Reading Schools are as follows:
Reading Units Within National SchoolsA number of National Schools now have reading units, where one or more classes are devoted to students with specific reading difficulties. Some of the schools with Reading Units are as follows:
This list is accurate to the best of our knowledge. However, we would advise you to contact the Dept. of Education and Science or your local school inspector for up-to-date information. |