New autismspectrumclass forDrumahoe

Education Minister John O’Dowd has approved the establishment of an Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) class at Drumahoe Primary School, and the relocation of a Learning Support Centre from Lisnagelvin Primary School to Drumahoe Primary School.

By Staff Reporter

Published 14th May 2015, 17:36 BST

He said: “Whilst the provision at Lisnagelvin Primary School has been excellent, there has been a significant increase in the number of children diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder.

“Provision cannot be expanded on the Lisnagelvin site and Drumahoe Primary School was identified as an alternative site.

“Drumahoe has both spare accommodation and a site that can house increased provision with no detriment to existing school facilities.

“Establishing these classes at Drumahoe will ensure that a larger, specialist, autism-specific setting is available in the Waterside area of Derry, thus enhancing the current provision.”

The proposals to increase provision in the area were brought forward by the Education Authority, formally known as the Western Education and Library Board.

John O'Dowd Derry