ICEP Europe, in partnership with Hibernia College, is pleased to announce that they have been awarded the tender by the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) to conduct a significant and timely research project which will explore the factors behind the growth in demand for special school and special class places in Ireland.
Both institutions bring together a strong interdisciplinary team with extensive expertise in education, research and inclusive practices. This project reflects their continued commitment to advancing inclusive education and supporting evidence-based decision-making in Irish education.
The study will employ a robust and multi-faceted methodology, including comparative policy and data analysis, international trend analysis, online surveys to all schools, interviews with key stakeholders, and the use of innovative visual methodologies to capture a diverse range of perspectives and experiences. The key voices in the research will be teachers, parents, school leaders, students, advocacy groups, clinical professionals, policy makers, teacher unions, and management bodies.
The research team are excited about conducting this important research and to working closely with the NCSE throughout the process.
At ICEP Europe, we look forward to continuing our collaboration with Hibernia College and engaging with key stakeholders to support and complement the NCSE’s long-standing commitment to inclusive education and its broader research agenda. This timely project presents a valuable opportunity to contribute to a deeper understanding of the factors behind the growing demand for special school and special class places in Ireland.