Parents’ Guide to St Anne’s National School ASD Early Intervention Class, Bailieborough, Co Cavan
Introduction to St Anne’s National School St Anne’s National School in Bailieborough, Co Cavan, is dedicated to providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment that caters to the diverse needs of all its students. A pivotal part of this commitment is the Early Intervention class for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), designed to meet the specific needs of young learners and prepare them for future educational success.
About the ASD Early Intervention Class St Anne’s National School’s ASD Early Intervention class, often referred to as the “Apple Tree” is tailored for children between the ages of 3 and 5 who have been diagnosed with ASD. The class is structured to provide specialized support and interventions that are critical during the early years of development.
Educational Structure and Timing The Apple Tree Class aligns with the mainstream school day, providing consistency and a sense of routine for the children. This setup not only facilitates a smoother transition to mainstream classes in later years but also ensures that children in the early intervention class are part of the broader school community.
Staffing and Support System The class benefits from a low student-to-teacher ratio, typically around 6:1, with additional support from dedicated Special Needs Assistants (SNAs). This allows for personalized attention and tailored educational strategies to support each child’s unique learning and development needs. The staff are specially trained in ASD interventions and are committed to creating a supportive, engaging, and therapeutic learning environment.
Goals and Objectives The primary goals of the Apple Tree Class include:
- Enhancing Communication and Social Skills: Through structured activities and play, children are encouraged to develop essential communication and social interaction skills.
- Promoting Independence: Activities are designed to foster independence, helping children to develop skills that enable them to navigate their environments more effectively.
- Supporting Sensory and Cognitive Development: The curriculum includes specific strategies to support sensory integration and cognitive development, tailored to the needs of children with ASD.
Parental Involvement and Partnership St Anne’s National School believes strongly in the power of partnership with parents. Parents are encouraged to be actively involved in their child’s education, from regular updates and meetings to participating in workshops and training sessions offered by the school. The collaboration between home and school is vital for reinforcing learning and ensuring consistent support across environments.
Enrollment Process Parents interested in enrolling their child in the Apple Tree Class should begin by contacting St Anne’s National School to express interest and learn more about the specific documentation and assessments required. An initial meeting with school personnel can provide further guidance on the process and help set up any necessary evaluations to ensure the class is the right fit for the child.
Conclusion The ASD Early Intervention Class at St Anne’s National School in Bailieborough offers a nurturing and structured environment tailored to the developmental needs of children with ASD. With a focus on holistic development and parental partnership, St Anne’s is committed to providing the support these children need to thrive both academically and socially. For parents looking for early intervention options in Co Cavan, the Apple Tree Class at St Anne’s presents an excellent opportunity to engage in a proactive and supportive educational setting.
