At Ballyduff National School, we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment that caters to the diverse needs of our students. Since September 2000, when we opened our first Autism Support Class, we have been at the forefront of special education in our community. 

History of Special Education at Ballyduff NS
Our journey began modestly, with the Autism Support Class initially set up in the old community hall across the road. The class was led by Ms. O’Neill, with the assistance of Ms. Ledwell, and welcomed two students, Shane and John. Over the years, our Autism Support Classes have steadily grown, welcoming more staff, students, and programs that enrich the educational experience of every child. 

Our Pupils and Staff
In the last 25 years, nearly 90 pupils have attended our Autism Support Classes, each benefiting from the unwavering dedication of our incredible staff. Our school takes immense pride in the support, care, and inclusive learning environment we have built for all students.

School Upgrade
A significant milestone in our history came in 2008 with the €3 million upgrade to our school facilities. These enhancements included purpose-built Autism Support Classrooms, a sensory room, and other multi-purpose spaces, ensuring we could continue to provide the best possible environment for our pupils. This development cemented our place as a leading school in special education, and we’ve continued to build on these facilities up to the present day.

Initiatives and Inclusion in Action
Our Autism Support Classes are integral to the inclusive ethos at Ballyduff NS. From integration programs to reverse integration, summer programmes, and activities like horse riding, day trips, and swimming, we ensure every child has opportunities to engage in enriching experiences. We are also proud of our newly formed Inclusion Team, which is dedicated to ensuring our school remains a welcoming and inclusive space for all pupils, highlighted by initiatives like our ‘Inclusion and Diversity Week.’

Looking Forward
Ballyduff NS remains a valued school within the local community, and we are committed to continuous improvement. Our dedicated staff and exceptional facilities enable us to provide a high-quality education that supports the growth and development of all students, especially those in our Autism Support Classes.

Conclusion
At Ballyduff NS, we are proud of the lasting legacy of special education that has shaped our school. We will continue to embrace inclusion, ensuring that all students feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. We now have a total of three primary school Autism Support Classes and at the time of writing this we are the only such school in Waterford to offer this level of support to children with Autism.