Wicklow special school pupils relishing results day

Students with special educational needs will receive their Senior Cycle Programme results tomorrow, on the same day that tens of thousands of pupils will get their Leaving Cert results.

The new Senior Cycle Level 1 and 2 Learning Programmes aim to prepare students for life beyond school.

The course is tailored to the needs of each student, with core modules of numeracy, communication and literacy, and personal care. Elective modules include physical education, being part of the community, art, looking after the environment, and drama.

"This is the first time that special schools will actually be having a results day like their peers, their friends, their family. So, it's a big deal for our pupils," Clare Carr, principal of St Catherine's Special School in Co Wicklow, told RTÉ News.

"They'll be able to log in to the portal and get their results like all of the mainstream schools do and have the opportunity to come to school and share in the excitement with the school community."

Pupils undertaking the Level 1 and 2 programmes compile proof of their learnings into a portfolio which will be assessed and certified by the State Examinations Commission.

The pupil may be awarded 'achieved' or 'achieved with merit' provided they have completed the course requirements.

Leon McKenna is one of the students at St Catherine's who will be getting his results tomorrow.

He said he is proud of the work he has done and is "feeling good" about results day. The work experience he completed at a local cafe was a highlight of the course for him.

His mother Kerrie Anne said she "could not be any prouder" of him and is looking forward to seeing his hard work recognised.

The school will have 11 pupils receiving their results tomorrow, and they will have a celebration at the school for them and their families.