Budget 2026 delivers a substantial boost to Ireland’s education sector, with Minister for Public Expenditure Jack Chambers confirming increases to capitation rates and major investments across schools, further education and third level.
Higher Capitation Rates for Schools
Standard capitation payments to schools will rise from next year. Primary and special schools will see an increase of €50 per pupil, bringing the rate to €274. Post-primary schools will receive an additional €20 per pupil, lifting their rate to €406.
The Department of Education and Youth has been allocated €13.1 billion for 2026. This will support the delivery of more than 300 school building projects, with most expected to be completed between 2026 and 2027. Included within this programme is a significant expansion of places in special education, with capacity for approximately 2,800 additional pupils across special schools and special classes. Funding will also support the first phase of a new Climate Action Summer Works Scheme.
More Teachers, SNAs and Supports
Budget 2026 provides for the recruitment of 1,717 additional Special Needs Assistants. This will bring the total number of SNAs in the education system to almost 24,900, the highest on record. A further 1,042 teaching posts will be created, including 860 roles dedicated to special educational needs across mainstream settings, special classes and special schools.
The School Transport Scheme will continue its expansion, with capacity to carry around 170,000 students daily. Funding will also progress the implementation of DEIS Plus and a new DEIS Plan, which aim to reduce educational disadvantage. The roll out of the Education Therapy Service will begin in special schools, improving access to essential supports for students with complex needs.
Youth services will also receive additional investment, with a particular emphasis on capital funding.
Almost €5 Billion for Further and Higher Education
The Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science will receive close to €5 billion next year.
Current expenditure of €4.1 billion will support:
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Expanded apprenticeship delivery to meet labour demands for major infrastructure projects
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1,110 new training places in health and social care professions
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A permanent €500 reduction in the student contribution fee, helping families manage rising education costs
Capital funding of €810 million will back major infrastructure developments, including:
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Projects under the new Taighde Éireann research body
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Additional student accommodation at UCD and Maynooth University
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Eleven new facilities across the technological university network, totalling 70,000 square metres and supporting STEM and related disciplines
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Two new veterinary medicine colleges, nearly doubling the number of graduates
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Centres of excellence for retrofit skills and near zero-energy building training
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Further development of the National Demonstration Park for Modern Methods of Construction under Housing for All
