Equal Education for All: SEN & Inclusion

Written by Aoife Breslin, this course explores the evolution of special education in Ireland and the key policies and frameworks that shape current practice. It highlights the importance of collaborative in-class support with practical examples, and places a strong focus on the meaningful inclusion of neurodivergent pupils, including those with autism, in mainstream classrooms. You'll engage with the Universal Design for Learning framework and strength-based, learner-centred approaches, and explore how the SPHE curriculum can promote belonging and celebrate diversity. Through collaborative discussion and reflection, you'll gain insight into building a whole-school culture rooted in inclusion, equity and respect for learner difference.

Course structure

20 hours total: 10 hours online learning plus 10 self-verified hours (module exercises, resources, discussion forum and a reflective learning log). Compulsory elements are two discussion forum posts per module, a reflective learning assignment and a personal learning record. Technical support is provided throughout.

Certification & EPV days

Approved by the Department of Education & Skills for EPV certification, with your start and completion dates printed on the cert. One course earns 3 EPV days, two courses 4 days, three courses 5 days. If you buy more than one, you complete them one at a time.

Duration

Courses ran from Wednesday 1st July and were completed by 5pm on Wednesday 22nd July, worked through at each teacher's own pace within that window. As per DES criteria, completion hours are recorded and dates appear on the cert for EPV days.

1. SEN and inclusion in the Irish context

Explore what inclusion truly means in the Irish education system. An overview of the history of special education and inclusion in Ireland, key national policies and documents, and reflection on your own understanding of inclusion through practical assignments.

2. Universal Design for Learning

An introduction to the UDL framework, highlighting the power of high expectations and strength-based teaching. Through a child profile exercise, explore practical ways to support diverse learners in mainstream classrooms.

3. Planning and catering for needs

The practicalities of inclusive planning. Examine the different categories of need, develop Student Support Files, and create targeted strategies based on pupil profiles through a hands-on mini case study.

4. Inclusion and School Self-Evaluation

How inclusion can be embedded across the whole school community. Focus on the Inclusive Education Framework, the role of pupil voice, and how SSE can drive inclusive practice. Assess your own school's inclusion practices and identify areas for growth.

5. In-class support

Effective models of in-class and team teaching, with a focus on early years through initiatives like Aistear and Ready Set Go Maths. Discuss the benefits and challenges of implementing in-class support in your own setting.