Students from across Ireland participate in the programme

A new postgraduate programme in Professional Studies in Special Educational Needs (SEN) offered by St Angela’s College, Sligo in conjunction with Carrick-on-Shannon Education Centre was recently co - launched by Dr. Anne Taheny, St. Angela’s College, Sligo and Deputy Frank Feighan ,TD. This innovative course develops the professional skills required to identify and support learners with SEN, while enabling participants to achieve a postgraduate Certificate, Diploma or Masters qualification accredited by NUI Galway.

‘There are significant developments in legislation and guidelines related to Special Educational Needs over the past decade,’ explained Dolores McDonagh, Director of SEN Programmes at St Angela’s College, Sligo, ‘This programme provides those working in mainstream schools, special schools and other settings with the knowledge and skills to respond to this changing context by promoting good practice.’ Dolores McDonagh acknowledged the partnership with the Carrick-on-Shannon Education Centre, in particular the support of Catherine Martin, Director of Carrick on Shannon Education Centre and her staff, in bringing this programme to Carrick-on-Shannon on an outreach basis.

Over twenty students representing eight counties—Cavan, Clare, Leitrim, Longford, Mayo, Roscommon, Sligo, Westmeath— started the part-time programme on Saturday. Dr Bairbre Tiernan, Programme Coordinator, explained the programme’s unique features: ‘A key component of this programme is examining the organisation, administration and management matters related to SEN. By understanding these matters in-depth, professionals on the programme develop a whole school approach to SEN teaching and learning.’ Dr Tiernan noted that the principals, teachers and other professionals in educational and community settings are enrolled on this programme, enabling them to share their experiences. ‘The Certificate and Diploma progression routes offer students flexibility towards completing the modules required towards a Masters qualification.’ The programme combines face-to-face input, online learning and self-directed study.

‘This is an exciting new development in the suite of programmes in Special Educational Needs within the region.’ Dolores McDonagh added, ‘St Angela’s College, Sligo is building a national reputation in the provision of high quality programmes to serve professionals working with people with Special Educational Needs.’  
Catherine Martin, Director of Carrick on Shannon Education Centre stated that they were delighted to be able to offer this new educational opportunity to class and subject teachers who have the key responsibility for the education of students with SEN.
 
For more information on the Postgraduate Certificate/Diploma/Masters in Professional Studies in SEN visit www.stangelas.nuigalway.ie or contact Sheila Foley, Department of Education at 071 91 95551. To discuss other SEN programmes contact Dolores McDonagh, Director of SEN Programmes at 071 91 95566.