New school needed for children with complex needs in Reykjavík according to Þroskahjálp chairperson Unnur Helga Óttarsdóttir

There is a pressing need for the establishment of a new school akin to Klettaskóli, according to Unnur Helga Óttarsdóttir, chairperson of Þroskahjálp. The current general education system lacks the specialized staff and facilities required to support students with complex needs.

For years, the demand for another special school like Klettaskóli has been acute. Eleven children were denied admission to the school and are now attending mainstream schools. The current premises have long been too small; designed for 70 to 90 students, it now accommodates over 140 with developmental disabilities and multiple impairments.

Unnur Helga commented, “The school has long been overstretched, maximizing every square meter, and even teaching huts have been placed in external play areas.” The number of staff at Klettaskóli exceeds that of the students, as these children require significant assistance traveling to and from school.

“The students necessitate extensive support and various assistive devices that occupy ample space. They cannot walk to school independently but rely on caregivers or specialized transport services, leading to congested conditions each morning at eight o’clock,” said Unnur Helga.

She pointed out that while inclusive education is emphasized, the general school system is not adequately equipped to serve children with significant support needs. To effectively cater to these students, trained professionals such as special educators, occupational therapists, psychologists, and speech therapists must be employed in schools.

According to the city of Reykjavík, a decision will be made in the upcoming weeks regarding the potential expansion of Klettaskóli by acquiring additional space. Arnarskóli, another special school in Kópavogur, has also had to turn away numerous applications due to high demand, particularly for students with autism. School administrators there are actively seeking solutions for space expansion.