Introductory Statement:
This policy was drawn up in response to an ever increasing demand for NEPS involvement for pupils in recent years.
Rationale:
- The development of an inclusive school environment for pupils with special educational needs is a key strand of our work at St. Mary’s N.S.
- The NEPS model of a ‘Continuum of Support’ encompasses a graduated problem solving model of assessment and interventions in schools comprised of three distinct school based processes, namely Classroom Support, School Support, and School Support Plus.
- The focus is on identifying actions which can be taken to make a positive difference to pupils
- NEPS is committed to developing best practice in relation to meeting the needs of all children with special educational needs and to supporting school staff.
Relationship to School Ethos:
All pupils have needs including the need to feel a sense of belonging, the need to feel safe, the need to communicate and to be communicated with and the need to be respected and valued.
As a Catholic school we endeavor to provide an appropriate learning environment where every child is encouraged and enabled to develop to their full potential
Internal School Procedures:
- It is essential that the needs of pupils with special educational needs can best be considered in terms of a structured on-going support plan.
- The NEPS model of a ‘Continuum of Support’ must be followed through the stages outlined earlier.
- Request for NEPS involvement must come from class teacher, if parents request it class teacher must agree.
- In cases where a NEPS Psychological Review Report is deemed appropriate assessment criteria in order of priority applies.
Criteria in order of priority:
- Cognitive assessment to access Low Incidence Teaching Hours (L.I.T.H.) otherwise known as resource hours
- Cognitive assessment to establish a diagnosis
- Cognitive assessment to access further supports and services
- Transition to secondary school
A priority list is drawn up annually in June and confirmed in September before a meeting takes place with NEPS to agree a list of pupils for NEPS involvement in for the school year. This list must be adhered.
Roles and Responsibilities:
All staff members share in the implementation of this policy. Deputy Principal will act as coordinating teacher in consultation with Principal Teacher.
Evaluation:
This policy will be review annually by In School Management Staff and amendments added as required.
Implementation:
Board of Management - 2014/15