Ramsgrange Community School (RCS) is facing a crisis situation impacting its most vulnerable students. Our school is a vibrant learning community situated in County Wexford, Ireland, with a current enrolment of 630 students. However, the school's infrastructure was originally designed to accommodate only 500 students, creating a significant deficit in space and resources. This strain is most intensely felt in our four special needs classes, particularly affecting students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Currently, due to the limited space on campus, four ASD classes are being conducted off-site in rented facilities. This separation not only fragments the learning experience but also deprives these students of the immersive and inclusive environment they richly deserve. Off-site education presents ongoing challenges such as logistical issues, limited access to school resources, and a lack of integration with peers. These children deserve better.

The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated, especially in light of our recent exclusion from the latest schools building programme announcement by the Department of Education. Our community was hopeful and eager for the approval and progression of our long-awaited major building project, which is critical to providing adequate facilities for all our students.

We call upon Minister Hildegarde Naughton and the Department of Education to prioritise the Ramsgrange Community School building project as part of the immediate agenda. Timely action and funding will allow us to construct the necessary facilities on-campus, thereby eliminating the need for external accommodation for our ASD classes.

This situation is urgent and action must be taken to ensure all students have access to an equitable and comprehensive education. Sign this petition to demand immediate action from the Department of Education and ensure that our students, particularly those in need of special education, are given the opportunity to learn and thrive in an environment that supports their full potential. Your signature is a step towards cementing a fair chance for our students.