Start by talking to the principal or special education teacher, and bring a recent professional report. The equipment belongs to the school, but it can come home for homework with the board's permission.
Quick facts
- Upper limit
- None
- Who applies
- The school, not parents
- Via
- SENO, or Visiting Teacher for sensory needs
- Evidence
- Professional reports
- Buy within
- 3 months of approval
- Home use
- With board permission
Who it's for
Mainly students with: "Hearing impairment Visual Impairment Physical disability Severe or profound general learning disability". In some cases, moderate or specific learning disabilities, speech and language disorders, autism or multiple disabilities qualify.
"No matter what disability a child has, the grant application must include medical (or other professional) reports, to show that they need specialist technology to access education."
What it buys
Laptops or tablets with adapted software, joysticks, keyboards, braille and CCTV equipment, audiobook equipment and FM or Soundfield systems. "There is no upper limit for the Assistive Technology Grant."
"Schools cannot use the grant for: TVs Phones or smartphones Internet access or phone connectivity charges".
How it's applied for
"Parents can't apply for the Assistive Technology Grant for their child themselves. Instead, the school applies for the grant on behalf of the child." Usually to the local Special Educational Needs Organiser (SENO), or through the Visiting Teacher for sensory impairments.
"Schools must wait for the application to be approved before buying any equipment. If approved, the school must buy the equipment for the student within 3 months." The school can appeal a refusal.
Taking it home
The equipment belongs to the school. "However, the school's Board of Management can give permission for a student to use the equipment at home."
Common questions
Can I apply for the Assistive Technology Grant myself?
No. The school applies on your child's behalf.
How much is the Assistive Technology Grant?
There is no upper limit; it depends on the cost of the equipment needed.
Can the Assistive Technology Grant buy a laptop?
Yes, a laptop or tablet with modified software, if your child needs it to access education.
Can my child bring the equipment home?
Only with the permission of the school's Board of Management.