A parent made a complaint to the Ombudsman for Children in relation to her son with autism, who was attending an autism unit in a mainstream school. The parent stated that her son was required to complete his primary education in 7 years in the autism unit unlike children attending mainstream school who completed their primary cycle in 8 years. The parent was concerned that her child was not ready to start secondary education and the school’s decision did not take the child’s best interests into account.

The OCO requested information from the school on this case including related policies. The Board of Management responded to the Office advising that it was the case that a 7-year cycle was provided in the autism unit admissions policy. However, the Board advised the OCO that it had amended policy to remove the age limit applied to the autism unit.

Therefore, following the OCO’s intervention the child concerned was entitled to remain in school and finish the full cycle of primary education.

Posted in: Investigations Education