NABMSE Welcomes Announcement of Mandatory Assessed Placements for Student Teachers in Special Education Settings

The National Association of Boards of Management in Special Education (NABMSE) wholeheartedly welcomes the announcement by Education Minister Helen McEntee to begin the process of introducing mandatory assessed placements for student teachers in special education settings. This long-awaited initiative also includes the integration of appropriate modules in initial teacher training, a key recommendation outlined in our manifesto.

NABMSE has been advocating for such measures for quite some time, and we are delighted to be partners in this process alongside the Department of Education. The inclusion of initial and ongoing teacher training, as well as support systems, remains a central focus at all of our meetings with the Department.

It is crucial that parents of children with additional needs in both mainstream and special school settings have full confidence that teachers are equipped with the necessary skills and experience to support their children's learning. The introduction of mandatory placements in special education settings will provide this assurance and ensure that all teachers are trained to meet the diverse needs of their pupils.

While this initiative is an important step forward, NABMSE stresses the need for continued professional development for all teachers in the area of special education.  Training and supports are essential to ensure equity and equality for all students, particularly those with additional needs.

We look forward to continuing to work closely with the Department of Education to build a future where every teacher has the expertise to create an inclusive and supportive environment for all pupils.

The National Association of Boards of Management in Special Education (NABMSE) headquarters is located at Kildare Education Centre in Kildare town.

• NABMSE represents 275 schools nationwide.
• NABMSE is the only education management body whose sole focus is Special Educational Needs.
• The NABMSE Executive Committee is composed of experienced practitioners in a wide range of Special Educational Needs contexts.