Education guide
Exams & assistive technology at school
A practical route through school assistive technology, RACE exam accommodations and annual education supports.
Content checked 28 September 2026. Time-sensitive details are labelled and should be rechecked before acting.
Assistive Technology Grant
The Department of Education scheme funds schools towards essential computers or specialist educational equipment for pupils with more complex disabilities where existing school IT is not enough. The school applies through the NCSE/SENO process.
RACE for State examinations
Reasonable Accommodations at the Certificate Examinations is managed through schools under State Examinations Commission instructions. Applications and deadlines are examination-year specific, so planning should start well before the exam year.
2026 additional-time measure
For 2026, an interim measure gave 10 minutes extra on each written paper to candidates already receiving a direct-intervention RACE accommodation. The SEC is reviewing RACE, so this should not be treated as a permanent 2027 rule.
Summer Programme
The Department’s annual Summer Programme can provide school-based or, in certain cases, home-based provision for children and young people with complex special educational needs. Each year has its own eligibility and dates.