About us
Sonas Special Junior Primary School is an Early Intervention school for children aged 3-6 years with a diagnosis of Autism. The school was set up in 2003 by the Department of Education and Science. The Brothers of Charity are the patrons of the school. The school is located in Carrigaline, about 10 miles south of Cork city. The school day is 9.30-2pm.
The philosophy of Sonas is based on the belief that each child is a special individual endowed with certain unique capacities and talents. The aim of the school is to nurture each child’s physical, social, emotional and intellectual development in a secure and friendly environment.
Sonas provides a learning environment in which each child can develop according to their individual needs. A variety of Autism-specific methodologies including ABA, Hanen, TEACCH, PECS, Sensory Integration, Social Stories and Intensive Interaction are implemented in order to access the Primary School Curriculum that is delivered across the school.
Each class is taught by a fully qualified teacher working with a team of 2-3 Special Needs Assistants. Learning activities are carefully structured and clear visual cues are used to scaffold learning.
Earlier this year, the school was asked by the NCSE to almost double in size – expanding from 24 to 42 children. There was no available room to accommodate the additional 3 classes needed for the expansion so at the end of August 2014, Sonas opened a second campus in Heron’s Wood. Through enormous effort from staff and parents alike, the new campus has been transformed into an oasis of learning in a very short time. The school is very grateful to the fantastic generosity shown by the various individuals and organizations whose support made it possible to facilitate this.
Our Mission Statement
Sonas is a school that nourishes each individual in a secure, friendly, and approachable environment. We provide a stimulating setting in which each child can maximise their learning potential, grow and develop in independence and confidence, with an emphasis on fun, enjoyment and balance of life. We welcome the co-operation and support of each child’s family.
