Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has welcomed the nationwide rollout of the Transition Support Service in special schools, describing it as an important step in helping young people with disabilities prepare for life after school.

Backed by €1.35 million in Budget 2026, the service will be available in all special schools from September and will support students in their final two years of school as they plan for the next stage of their lives.

The rollout follows the successful completion of a pilot programme which demonstrated the value of providing dedicated support to young people and their families as they navigate the move from school to further education, training, employment and other post-school opportunities.

Welcoming the announcement, Minister Canney said: “Leaving school is a major milestone in any young person’s life. It is a huge milestone, but it can also bring uncertainty, particularly for students with disabilities and their families as they consider what comes next.

“This service is about ensuring that young people are supported to plan for their future, identify the opportunities available to them and make informed decisions about the next chapter of their lives.

“The transition from school should not be something that happens in the final weeks before a student leaves. It should be a gradual process that gives young people the confidence, skills and supports they need to achieve their ambitions and participate fully in their communities.”

The service will be managed by the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) on behalf of the Department of Education and Youth. Each special school will receive 34 transition support teaching days per year, allowing schools to provide tailored supports at key stages throughout the school year.

Students will be supported to develop personalised transition plans, helping them and their families to explore pathways into further education, training, employment, day services and other opportunities that match their individual needs, interests and aspirations.

The Transition Support Service will be introduced in all special schools from September 2026.