classes

An overview of our mainstream and ASD classes, showcasing the learning opportunities, specialised support, and activities we provide to help every child develop skills, confidence, and independence.

Mainstream Classes

We have 8 mainstream classes Junior Infants to 6th class. Depending on enrolment numbers we may have 8 single classes with 8 teachers or some years classes may be split if we only have 7 teachers.  Please see admissions section to enrol your child in mainstream.

ASD Classes

We have 3 special classes supporting children with Autism. We are proud to say we have a lot of resources to support the children. These resources include a large classroom with individual work stations, an indoor and out door sensory room off each classroom and a communal O/T room and Sensory room along the corridor.

Supporting Children with ASD

In our ASD classroom, we provide a wide range of structured, supportive, and engaging activities that help promote social development, independence, communication, and overall wellbeing.

Here are some of the key activities we offer:

Baking and Life Skills

Baking is a regular and much-loved part of our ASD class routine. Children:

  • Learn to follow simple instructions and routines
  • Practice measuring, mixing, and using kitchen tools
  • Develop turn-taking, fine motor skills, and independence
  • Take pride in sharing and tasting their creations!

Cycling Lessons

We offer adapted cycling sessions using balance bikes or pedal bikes. These sessions build:
Gross motor skills
Confidence and independence
Spatial awareness and focus

Swimming (6-Week Block)

Pupils participate in a weekly swimming programme at a local pool, helping to build water confidence, coordination, and sensory regulation in a calm, supported environment.

Social Outings

Monthly outings help children develop real-life skills and experience new environments in a supported way:

  • Trips to the local park for physical play and sensory input
  • Visits to a café to practice ordering and social interaction
  • Outings to a ball play area for motor skills, turn-taking, and fun

Reflexology and Sensory Support

Relaxation and reflexology sessions provide calming, sensory-rich experiences that help children regulate their emotions and connect with their bodies in a soothing, non-verbal way.

Learn more about our school-wide activities and special celebrations by visiting our
‍School Activities page.
Discover Our ASD Facilities

Facilities within our school which support our pupils with ASD include

3 very spacious classrooms packed with tailored resources to support the children’s learning,

3 large sensory rooms within the ASD classrooms where children can go to rest and feel calm.

A communal O/T room with a large swing, built in trampoline, climbing ladder and soft area.

A communal state of the art sensory room with calming oils, music, weighted blankets, infinity tunnel and sensory bubble tube.

There is lots of space outside so if children need a break from bigger crowds during yard time, there are smaller spaces to access with fewer children.

We are also currently working on the completion of a sensory garden off the ASD classes which will benefit all children.

We are proud of all our children here in Castletara N.S and love to celebrate all achievements that they make whether they are big or small, because we know that achievements that may seem small to some can be a big deal to others.