Developmental Language Disorder Class

The aim of the class is to provide children who meet the DE criteria and the local criteria, the opportunity to spend one or two years in a small class setting where they can receive intensive educational and speech & language therapy support (DEY Circular 0024/2025). The place is offered initially for one year. The class is staffed by a full time Teacher employed by the DEY and a part time Speech & Language Therapist employed by the local HSE area. No more than seven children will be enrolled in the class each year.

There is a joint application process for the DLD/SSD Classes in Stapolin ETNS and St Marnock’s NS.

Information on admission and application procedures can be found in our Admission Policy, the Stapolin ETNS/St Marnock’s NS DLD/SSD Class Policy and our Annual Admissions Notice.

Applications for referrals are accepted from Speech and Language Therapists and Psychologists only.

Applications should be made to the School Principal with the relevant accompanying documentation listed below from Monday 2nd February 2026. 

Parents may make enquiries directly to the School Principal of either school or HSE Speech & Language Therapist. The child’s Speech & Language Therapist or Psychologist co-ordinates the referral to the DLD/SSD Class having discussed this in detail with parents/guardians and other professionals involved with the child.

The closing date for applications to the DLD/SSD Class for September 2025 is Monday 2nd March 2026 at 4pm.