An Cosán, meaning “The Path”, is the name of our three autism classes at Hansfield ETSS.
Each class has six students enrolled. The name An Cosán reflects our commitment to supporting every student along their own individual educational path. We recognise that each student has their own strengths, interests, abilities, support needs and aspirations.
Our aim is to provide a safe, supportive and inclusive learning environment in which students can:
- develop their communication and learning skills
- build confidence, independence and resilience
- form positive relationships
- participate meaningfully in the wider life of the school
- experience success and achievement
- prepare for the next stage of their education and life beyond school.
Our Ethos and Values
An Cosán reflects the equality-based, child-centred and inclusive ethos of Hansfield ETSS. We recognise and value each student as an individual, ensuring that their voice, strengths, interests and needs are central to their educational journey.
Our school values of Respect, Inclusivity, Honesty, Openness, Community and Partnerships guide the work of An Cosán. These values are evident in the relationships between students, families and staff, in our commitment to meaningful inclusion in the wider life of the school, and in the collaborative approach we take to supporting every student along their own unique path.
Learning in An Cosán
Students enrolled in An Cosán follow a Level 1 or Level 2 Learning Programme, known as an L1LP or L2LP, as the main programme for their learning at both Junior Cycle and Senior Cycle.
Each student’s programme is personalised and is planned in response to their individual strengths, learning needs, interests and intended learning outcomes.
While the L1LP or L2LP provides the main structure for learning, many students in An Cosán also access appropriate elements of the:
- Junior Cycle curriculum
- Transition Year programme
- Senior Cycle curriculum.
The combination of learning experiences provided to each student is carefully considered by the school team. It is reviewed regularly and developed in consultation with the student, their parents or guardians and the staff supporting them.
Understanding the L1LP and L2LP
Level 1 and Level 2 Learning Programmes are personalised curriculum pathways for students who benefit from learning experiences that are designed and assessed at Level 1 or Level 2 of the National Framework of Qualifications.
The programmes support students in developing knowledge, skills and confidence across areas such as:
- communication and literacy
- numeracy
- personal care and wellbeing
- social and practical skills
- independence
- participation in school and community life
- preparation for adult life and life after school.
At Junior Cycle, learning is organised through Priority Learning Units, appropriate short courses and other curriculum experiences selected to meet the student’s individual needs.
At Senior Cycle, the Level 1 and Level 2 Learning Programmes build on the student’s Junior Cycle learning. They provide a personalised pathway focused on continued learning, greater independence, preparation for adult life and meaningful participation in the community.
The programme followed by each student is not determined solely by their age or year group. It is selected according to their individual learning profile, strengths, needs and the level of support required.
More information can be found here from Curriculum Online:
The An Cosán Team
An Cosán is coordinated by Amy Prior, with the support and collaboration of all members of the An Cosán team.
Teachers, class tutors, Special Needs Assistants, the Additional Educational Needs team and the wider school staff work together to support each student’s learning, wellbeing, inclusion and personal development.
| An Cosán Class |
Class Tutor |
Special Needs Assistants |
| Sunflower |
TBC |
TBC |
| Rose |
TBC |
TBC |
| Blossom |
TBC |
TBC |
Information and Resources for Parents and Guardians
The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) provides a range of information, guidance and forms for parents and guardians.
Resources for Parents
Access NCSE guidance and resources to support children and young people with additional educational needs: Visit the NCSE Resources for Parents webpage
Forms for Parents
Access parental consent forms and other relevant NCSE forms: Visit the NCSE Forms for Parents webpage
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to frequently asked questions from parents and guardians: Visit the NCSE Frequently Asked Questions webpage