Dear Parents/Guardians,
We found out yesterday that our school has been sanctioned a third class for pupils with autism. This is great news for our little school up here in Ballymitty! It was something we knew was needed in our school, something we fought and something we feel will have many benefits such as:
Building on Established Good Practice
- Our school already has a strong foundation of experience, expertise, and successful practice in supporting autistic pupils.
- A third class allows the school to build on what is already working well rather than starting from scratch.
- Staff have developed valuable skills in inclusive teaching, communication supports, sensory awareness, and differentiated learning that benefit all children.
- Continuity and growth strengthen the quality of provision across the school.
Promoting Inclusion and Diversity
- The new class reflects the school’s commitment to being welcoming, inclusive, and representative of the wider community.
- Children benefit from learning in an environment where differences are understood, respected, and valued.
- Inclusion helps foster empathy, kindness, patience, and social awareness among all pupils.
- Schools that embrace diversity prepare children for life in a modern society where people have different strengths, needs, and ways of communicating.
Benefits for the Whole School Community
- Inclusive schools create richer learning environments for everyone.
- Many strategies used in autism classes — visual supports, structured routines, sensory-friendly approaches, and differentiated teaching — positively influence mainstream classrooms too.
- Opportunities for shared activities, buddy systems, assemblies, sports, and creative projects strengthen the sense of school community.
- Parents can feel proud that the school is recognised as a caring and progressive place for children.
Meeting Growing Educational Needs
- There is a clear and increasing need for autism class placements in many communities and in our school.
- Expanding provision means more local children can access appropriate education close to home and remain connected to their community. This is so important and we know that in many areas, particularly urban areas, there are many children who end up being home schooled as there are simply not enough places.
- It supports families who may otherwise face long travel distances or uncertainty about school placements.
Supporting Positive Outcomes for Children
- Autism classes provide a supportive environment where pupils can develop academically, socially, emotionally & independently at their own pace.
- Smaller class settings with specialised supports can help children thrive while still participating in wider school life.
- Early, effective support in primary school can have long-term positive impacts on confidence, communication, learning, and wellbeing.
I commend our staff up here for having the vision to want to expand our An Choill classrooms and for having an interest in making a difference in childrens' lives.
It takes a whole school to educate a child and we look forward to this new class opening next September.
There are specific criteria for enrolment into an autism class so if you do have any enquiries please email the school - ballymittyns@gmail.com
It is great to share this news!
Audrey and the staff