Ballyhenry's Sparkle Room has been established to provide tailored support for children identified with Moderate Learning Difficulties (MLD) as their primary need according to their Statement. In addition, these students may have secondary requirements, including challenges with communication, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and/or other medical considerations.

The EA has determined that there can be a maximum of 10 to 12 pupils from P1 to P4. It is staffed by 1 teacher and one full-time learning support assistant. Depending on the needs of the pupils, additional adults can be added. Currently, there is one additional classroom assistant supporting the pupils The EA has determined that there can be a maximum of 10 to 12 pupils from P1 to P4. It is staffed by 1 teacher and one full-time learning support assistant. Depending on the needs of the pupils, additional adults can be added. Currently, one additional classroom assistant is supporting the pupils. This means there are 3 adults in the classroom. 

The School Day

Drop and Go: 8:45-9:00 a.m. Children can arrive at Ballyhenry between 8:45 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. Your child is welcome to arrive during this period but may feel more comfortable arriving a little after 9:00 a.m. Break: 10:30-11:00 a.m. Children have an opportunity to have a shared break provided by the school at a cost of £1.50 week. Preparing and sharing break is a vital part of the children's learning. Lunch/Dinners: 12:00-12:30 p.m. Children can opt to have a hot dinner or bring a lunch from home. The children eat in the classroom with their staff. Children with a Statement of Educational Needs are often entitled to Free School Meals due to their complex needs. Parents/carers need to apply for this entitlement on an annual basis. School Ends: 1:30 p.m. The school ends at 1:30 p.m. for most of the children in the LSC. Sometimes special arrangements are made to better meet the needs of the children. We will keep you informed of these arrangements.

Learning and Teaching

Children in the LSC access the curriculum in a slightly different manner than in a mainstream classroom. Their learning is based on their individual needs. We prioritize the safety and happiness of our pupils and ensure they understand the established routines within the center. Each child is then supported individually to develop their "Q-Skills" before progressing to the Northern Ireland Curriculum when they are ready. The daily routine encompasses a range of activities including arrival, play-based learning, teacher-led tasks, independent learning, breaks, group time, outdoor learning, physical education, and art and sensory activities. Our approach to teaching and learning takes a thematic approach, tailored to the age, development stage, and abilities of each child in our care. Moreover, children follow a personalized timetable which they refer to regularly throughout the school day. By fostering a safe, developmentally appropriate, and nurturing environment, we ensure that children in the LSC receive an education that caters to their individual needs and prepares them for their educational journey.