Role of the NCSE

The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is an independent statutory body established in 2003, as part of the EPSEN Act. Its remit is to improve the delivery of educational services for people with special educational needs.

The general functions of the Council as set out in Section 20 of the EPSEN Act may be summarised as follows.
  • Planning and co-ordinating provision of education and support services to children with special educational needs.
  • Disseminating information on best practice concerning the education of children with special educational needs.
  • Providing information to parents in relation to the entitlements of children with special educational needs.
  • Assessing and reviewing resources required by children with special educational needs.
  • Ensuring that progress of students with special educational needs is monitored and reviewed.
  • Reviewing education provision for adults with disabilities.
  • Advising educational institutions on best practice.
  • Consulting with voluntary bodies.
  • Advising the Minister for Education and Science on matters relating to special education.
  • Conducting research and publishing findings.
In addition, the Council has specific functions in relation to the core provisions of the Act such as assessment and individual education plans.
NCSE website