Following an investment by the Department of Education, Presentation Secondary School has unveiled two new autism classes and a sensory room, as well as a new state-of-the-art technology suite for the provision of Applied Technology, and Design and Communications Graphics to students.
Principal Sally Ronayne and Autism Class Co-Ordinator Sandra Keating were guests on the Big Breakfast Blaa along with students Ella and Aicha.
Both Ella and Aicha spoke very honestly and frankly about their experience within the education system looking back to the challenges they faced before the autism class was available, and their reality now.
Supporting School Attendance in Presentation Secondary School
Aicha, who is a First Year student in Presentation Secondary School received an autism diagnosis towards the end of her primary school journey. This meant many years of no targeted supports and struggles with attendance.
Similarly, Ella who is a Third Year student was frequently absent due to anxiety, sensory overload, and difficulty in being able to regulate in a busy school environment.
Both students told Dymphna that their school attendance now has been transformed due to the impact of the targeted supports now being received daily.
STEM Offering in Presentation Secondary School
Reflecting on the greater choice of STEM offerings for students, Sally said a student who feels supported in their school life and in their subject choices is a student who has a greater likelihood of success.
This, she stated honestly, is something their school and many others have not always been able to offer due to a lack of resourcing around student supports and subject range.
A really interesting, important listen, and a red-letter day for Presentation Secondary School as they officially unveil these important additions to their school.
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