Fighting for your son’s education
Families of children with special educational needs (SEN) in Northern Ireland are facing uncertainty and anxiety as many await confirmation of school placements for September. Christopher Flanagan-Kane, whose autistic son Aodhan is among those waiting, expressed frustration with the delays, stating that vulnerable children are being treated as “second-class citizens.” Jessica Reyes and Patricia Wu break down this family’s story with Charlotte Lewis.
Education Authority falling short
The Education Authority (EA) acknowledges the difficulties families face and claims to be working to resolve the situation but has not disclosed how many SEN children remain without placements. The Department of Education attributes the delays to a significant increase in the number of SEN students needing placements this year.
Finding the right space to accommodate your child’s needs
Mr. Flanagan-Kane highlighted the negative impact the wait has had on his son’s mental health, emphasizing the importance of securing a suitable placement that caters to Aodhan’s specific needs.
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