Ballinlough National School in Roscommon has made national history by becoming the first school in Ireland to be formally recognised as an ‘FASD Aware School’, following the successful completion of the FASD in the Classroom

training programme by its entire staff team.

Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a complex and challenging neurodevelopmental condition that affects up to 7.4% of the population (HSE September 2022). With impacts on learning, behaviour, emotional regulation, and

daily functioning, FASD is often misunderstood or overlooked. By undertaking this comprehensive training, Ballinlough National School has taken a pioneering step to ensure students living with FASD and those with similar support needs

receive informed, compassionate, and effective educational support.

The whole staff training, delivered by FASD Ireland, provides educators with practical tools and strategies to recognise the symptoms of FASD, adapt classroom environments, and create learning approaches that reduce stress and

enable children to thrive.

A First for Ireland Ballinlough National School’s commitment marks the first time an Irish school has achieved official ‘FASD Aware School’ status, setting a new benchmark for inclusive and trauma informed education nationwide.

Tara Jordan, Principal of Ballinlough National School, said: “The ‘FASD in the Classroom’ training has had a direct and meaningful impact on teaching and learning at Ballinlough National School. Staff are now more aware, informed and

attuned to the diverse needs of children living with Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder in our care. The training we received from FASD Ireland has empowered all team members to confidently manage the complexities associated with FASD in the classroom, on yard or on the bus, ensuring consistent and supportive responses throughout the school day.”

Jordan continued, “This learning supports not only the children who have been diagnosed with FASD but also those who may remain undiagnosed. By strengthening our understanding and practice for one child through training of

any kind, we benefit all learners in our school.”

Tristan Casson Rennie, CEO of FASD Ireland, praised the school’s leadership and vision: “Ballinlough National School is leading the way. Their entire staff team from the Principal to School Bus Driver have demonstrated a deep commitment

to inclusion and to understanding the unique needs of children with FASD. We hope many more schools will follow their example, so that every child across Ireland can benefit from informed, compassionate teaching.”

Championing Inclusion

Through their new ‘FASD Aware School’ status, Ballinlough NS will:

• Embed FASD informed strategies throughout teaching and learning

• Foster a calm, flexible, sensory aware school environment

• Strengthen communication between staff, families, and support services

• Model inclusive practice for other schools regionally and nationally

About FASD Ireland

FASD Ireland is the country’s national organisation providing support, advocacy, and training for people living with Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, their families, and professionals working to support them. The FASD in the Classroom

programme equips educators with evidence-based skills including brain-based approaches, co-regulation, de-escalation, and emotional support strategies for neurodiverse learners.