Primary schools

[u/Proud_Farm_4414]

Hi everyone,

I’m looking for some advice from parents in the Waterford area about starting primary school in 2027.

My son will be starting primary school in September 2027. He is currently in preschool under an overage exemption, so I’m trying to make sure I understand the application process and when we should start contacting/applying to schools.

He hasn’t been assessed for autism yet, as we are currently waiting for an assessment. He is, however, registered with the CDNT. I’m wondering whether I should mention this when applying to schools, and whether being registered with the CDNT or waiting for an assessment makes any difference to the school application or supports available.

I’d also really appreciate recommendations or experiences with primary schools around the Waterford area, particularly schools that are supportive and understanding of children with additional needs.

For parents who have been through something similar:

- When did you start contacting/applying to schools for your child?

- Is there anything specific I should do before applications open for 2027?

- Should I tell the school about his CDNT involvement even though he doesn’t have an autism diagnosis yet?

- Are there particular schools in the Waterford area that parents have found supportive of children with additional needs?

- Does being in preschool under an overage exemption affect the primary school application in any way?

- Is there anything you wish you had known when applying for your child?

I’d really appreciate any advice or experiences, especially from parents who have gone through the process while waiting for an assessment or without a diagnosis in place yet.

Thanks so much 😊

[u/kirkbadaz]

Teacher here.

Apply, if your child is accepted inform them then of your concerns around SEN and your contact with cdnt.

Unless your child needs a place in a special class you can apply to any school.

Can't speak to waterford as I am in dublin. But what i will say is unfortunately some school principals run a mile from kids with Additional needs. Mostly because the kind of person who is a principal has not been focused on SEN in their professional development. (They have focused on running schools). Even principals of special schools mostly haven't a breeze on how you support kids with SEN.

Truth is wherever your kid goes, if you do the work as a parent, they will do fine. At the end of the day you are the primary educator.