STEWARTS SCHOOL
School Details
About
Stewarts School is a specialist primary and junior cycle institution dedicated to students with moderate, severe and profound learning difficulties. The school adopts evidence‑based teaching strategies within a broad and balanced curriculum, tailoring instruction to each child’s individual needs. A strong emphasis is placed on developing communication, language, social skills and personal health alongside traditional subjects such as mathematics, science, history, geography, visual art, drama, music and physical education. The school recently relocated to a purpose‑built facility in Rosse Court, Lucan, which includes specialised classrooms, sensory rooms and outdoor play areas designed to support a wide range of physical, sensory and medical requirements. Learning is further enhanced through the use of augmentative communication systems (Lámh, PECS), specialised programmes such as TEACCH and Numicon, and assistive technologies including iPads, eye‑gaze devices, interactive whiteboards and switches. Each pupil has an individual education plan developed in consultation with families and relevant professionals, ensuring a personalised pathway to achieving their full potential. The ethos of Stewarts School focuses on recognising strengths, fostering mutual respect and encouraging innovative teaching through ongoing staff development. Strong links with other primary and post‑primary schools aim to broaden opportunities and promote inclusive community participation for all students.
History
Stewart’s School opened over 55 years ago as a two‑teacher establishment serving just 12 children with special educational needs. Its patron, Stewarts Care, was founded in 1869 in Palmerstown, Dublin, to provide education, training and care for individuals with intellectual disabilities across Ireland. Over the decades the school has expanded to employ 23 staff members and educate approximately 120 students. The recent move to a new, purpose‑built building in Rosse Court, Lucan, reflects continued growth and a commitment to providing modern facilities that meet the diverse needs of its student population.