If you have dyslexia, ADHD, ASD etc, hearing difficulties, or sight impairments, you can request permission to record classes or ask the teacher/lecturer for printed notes. Many universities and colleges also provide recorders for students to use throughout the academic year. Additionally, most colleges upload lectures online for students who experience agoraphobia or high anxiety in group settings, ensuring that all students have access to the necessary materials and support for their learning needs

Some universities and colleges provide accessible accommodation. Speak to the disability or access officer to find out more about your options.

Some universities and colleges may be able to provide an assistant who can come to lectures with you and takes notes if you are unable to take notes yourself.

Support measures may include additional time for exams, having an examiner read the questions to you, or taking exams in a private room with an examiner acting as a scribe.

If you use a wheelchair or have mobility issues, it is essential to contact your disability or access officer
at school, university, or college to ensure that all classes and facilities, including sports areas, are accessible to you.

Special Needs Education Supports
Education for children with special needs can be provided in mainstream classes within mainstream schools, special classes within mainstream schools, or in special schools.

Mainstream Classes

Many children with disabilities or special needs attend mainstream classes in regular schools. They may receive support from learning support and resource teachers, as well as care support from special needs assistants (SNAs). More information about these supports can be found in the documents on special needs education in primary and post-primary schools.

Special Classes in Mainstream Schools

Some children attend special classes within mainstream schools. These classes typically have low pupil-to-teacher ratios, providing more individualized attention.

Special Schools

There are approximately 140 special schools catering to specific types of disabilities and special needs. These schools generally serve students with more complex special educational needs, where a full-time placement in a mainstream setting may not be in the student's best interest. You can find special schools in your area on the NCSE website.

Education Plans

Under the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act 2004 (EPSEN Act), each child assessed with a special educational need should have a personal education plan. While this system is not yet fully implemented, its rollout is being coordinated by the National Council for Special Education (NCSE), which has published Guidelines for the Individual Education Plan process.