On Wednesday (April 9th), the Commissioner saw firsthand St Gerard’s commitment to excellence in special needs but also the critical need for increased investment and support to ensure all students can reach their full potential.
On Wednesday (April 9th), the Commissioner saw firsthand St Gerard’s commitment to excellence in special needs but also the critical need for increased investment and support to ensure all students can reach their full potential.
There were meaningful conversations with both staff and students at the visit on the Blacks Road site which highlighted the challenges within the current system.
The visit aimed to gain insights into 
the needs of St. Gerard’s 419 pupils. 
Principal, Stephen Ramsey and his staff highlighted the necessity for reconfiguration of the school’s facilities to better accommodate the diverse and complex needs of their students.
They emphasised the urgency for cross-departmental conversations to address the complex challenges that students with special needs face both in and out of the classroom.
Speaking about the visit, the Commissioner, said: “It was a pleasure to be invited to St Gerard’s and to have the opportunity to engage with both staff and pupils.
“It’s evident the commitment there is to provide a nurturing and inclusive environment, but it also highlighted the urgent attention the system needs.
“It’s essential that a supportive environment is in place to meet the educational and emotional needs of every child.
“Coordinated efforts are needed across various departments to ensure that these students and their families receive the support they require.”
One pupil, Conor, poignantly reflected: “It’s easy for young people with special needs to get very anxious and down.
“Actions speak louder than words, and young people should be able to make their own choices. There should be more opportunities available for us when we leave school, so we don’t feel isolated.”
The conversations highlighted a significant gap in support for families outside the school environment. 
The staff underscored the need for additional resources and community-based initiatives that can provide ongoing assistance to families facing the complexities associated with special needs.
Principal, Stephen Ramsey, said: “We at St Gerard’s Special School Belfast welcomed the visit of the children’s commissioner.
“We were delighted that he listened to the challenges that we are currently facing in Special Education throughout the North of Ireland.
“Chris listened to the concerns of our staff and more importantly to the voices of our students. We look forward to further meetings in the future.”
