Hard-hitting reports on autism and dyslexia unveiled

The Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland departments of education have published two reports on the educational provision for children with Autism and Dyslexia.

The reports, which were described by the Education Minister Martin McGuinness as “hard-hitting and wide ranging,” were co-ordinated to advise teachers and the two government education departments on the range of provision for dyslexic children and young people, pre-school to post-secondary.

There are currently 100 children who are diagnosed with having Autism Spectrum Disorder in Northern Ireland and many more who have yet to be diagnosed.

Mr McGuinness said: “Children with similar levels of difficulties should be assessed by professionals who are working to the same criteria and should be entitled to similar levels of provision. This is not just a matter of good professional practice; it is a matter of equality.

“Special needs is a priority in the work of the North South Ministerial Council, and significant progress has been made in the development of video and CD ROM material for parents and teachers of children with Autism and Dyslexia. In addition, the establishment of a cross-border exchange programme for teachers and other education professionals will allow sharing of good practice and development of expertise.”

Key findings from both reports show the need for more training for teachers and for the earliest intervention for children. Both also pointed to the probability that the numbers of children and young people who have Dyslexia or Autism are currently under-reported.

Martin Clarke, Principal Educational Psychologist, Belfast Education and Library Board Chairperson of the Task Group on Autism, said: “The Task Group on Autism found many examples of quality services for diagnosis, assessment and education of children and young people, but there are not enough of these to meet demand and quality varies from one area to the next.”

Sinn Féin assembly member for Foyle Mary Nelis said: “I hope the raised profile of Autism will benefit the many children and young people affected by this condition and improve the level of educational provision for them and their families.”

(AMcE)