New special classes due to be put in place at twelve Offaly schools

Offaly TD John Clendennen has said two further schools in the county have been approved for special classes in the 2026/2027 school year.

This brings the total number of new special classes announced for the county to twelve.

The latest schools to receive approval are Scoil Bhríde, in Croghan, and Clonlisk National School in Shinrone.

The TD said these latest additions mean that the following twelve schools will have a new special class in place for the coming academic year: Mercy Primary School, Birr; St Brendan’s Boys Primary School, Birr; Durrow National School; Scoil Mhuire, Tullamore; Clonlisk National School; Rhode National School; Croghan National School; Cappagh National School; Tullamore Educate Together National School; Coláiste Choilm, Tullamore; Tullamore College and Banagher College.

Deputy Clendennen said the twelve new special classes in Offaly for the 2026/2027 school year represented "a significant expansion of supports for children and families" across the county.

"These classes will provide vital educational opportunities for students with additional needs, ensuring they can access high-quality education within their own communities," he said.

The Fine Gael TD said he wished to acknowledge the work of school staff, boards of management, parents and the Department of Education in securing these important resources.

"This is about ensuring every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential. The expansion of special class provision across Offaly reflects the growing need and the commitment to meeting that need locally."

Deputy Clendennen said he was committed to continuing to work with schools and families across Offaly to ensure there are adequate educational supports in place.

"Every child deserves the opportunity to thrive in their local school. Expanding special education provision remains a key priority, and I will continue to push for further supports where needed," he said.

"This announcement reflects a strong commitment to strengthening education across Offaly."