Education is not one-size-fits-all. Some children learn better with extra support, special teachers, and customized tools designed to help them grow at their own pace. That is why special schools in Ibadan and their fees have become an important topic for parents and students who need guidance.
Ibadan, being one of the largest cities in Nigeria, has a number of special schools that focus on helping children with disabilities, learning difficulties, and other developmental challenges. This article explores the major institutions, the types of disabilities they cater for, how their fee structures work, and how to get admitted.
Special Education in Ibadan
Special education in Ibadan focuses on inclusion, care, and professional support. These schools are structured to provide both academic and life-skills training for students who cannot easily cope in mainstream schools.
Key features include:
- Specialized teachers: trained to handle learning disabilities, autism, and other conditions.
- Therapeutic support: speech therapy, physiotherapy, and behavior management programs.
- Smaller class sizes: ensuring closer attention and one-on-one learning.
When discussing special schools in Ibadan and their fees, it is important to understand that these schools differ greatly. Some are government-funded and charge minimal tuition, while others are private institutions offering advanced facilities and therefore charge higher fees.
List of Recognized Special Schools in Ibadan
Here are some recognized special schools in Ibadan that offer tailored education for students with special needs:
- Oke-Bola Special Basic School, Ibadan – A government-owned institution focused on children with hearing and visual impairments.
- Aikea Special School and Home – A private center offering educational and residential care for children with autism, cerebral palsy, and developmental delays.
- Ademola Special Learning Centre – Known for speech therapy and early intervention programs for children with Down syndrome and slow learning challenges.
- The Sterling Inclusive Academy – Combines both regular and special classes, encouraging inclusion among children of all abilities.
- Peacefield Special College, Ring Road – Focused on older children and teenagers, with both academic and vocational training options.
These examples reflect how special schools in Ibadan and their fees vary depending on ownership, facilities, and student support.
Types of Disabilities Catered for in Each School
Each special school in Ibadan has its area of focus, depending on the expertise of its teachers and therapists. Below are the main categories:
- Hearing Impairment: Schools like Oke-Bola provide sign-language classes and audiological aids.
- Visual Impairment: Students learn using Braille books and tactile materials.
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Some private institutions include therapy sessions and behavior improvement programs.
- Learning Disabilities: Special educators use personalized teaching plans to improve comprehension.
- Physical Disabilities: Facilities often include ramps, accessible classrooms, and physiotherapy sessions.
Before making a decision about special schools in Ibadan and their fees, parents should confirm that the school’s facilities match the child’s specific needs.
School Fees Structure for Each Institution
Fees differ widely among special schools depending on services offered. Here’s what you should know:
- Public special schools: Government-funded institutions like Oke-Bola Special Basic School charge little to no tuition. However, parents may still cover uniforms, feeding, and transportation.
- Private special schools: Fees typically range from ₦100,000 to ₦500,000 per term, depending on therapy sessions, boarding options, and medical support.
- Inclusive academies: Schools that combine regular and special students usually charge between ₦150,000 and ₦300,000 per term.
- Extra services: Some centers request separate fees for diagnostic assessments, usually ₦20,000 to ₦50,000, before placement.
It is always best to visit the school directly to get updated details on special schools in Ibadan and their fees, as charges can change yearly.
Admission Process and Contact Details
Getting admitted into a special school in Ibadan is a straightforward but careful process. Most schools require the following steps:
- Consultation: Parents meet the school administrator to discuss the child’s needs.
- Assessment: The child may undergo an evaluation by a psychologist or therapist to determine the right class.
- Application Form: Parents fill out the school’s admission form and provide documents like medical reports.
- Payment of Fees: Schools often request a non-refundable admission or assessment fee before full enrollment.
- Orientation: Once admitted, the child is introduced gradually into the new learning environment.
Contact details for many special schools in Ibadan and their fees can be found on their websites or through local education boards in Oyo State.
Special education is not just about learning; it is about giving every child the chance to reach their full potential. Choosing among special schools in Ibadan and their fees requires patience, research, and understanding of your child’s needs. Whether public or private, what matters most is that the environment provides care, comfort, and progress.
By comparing options, visiting campuses, and asking the right questions, parents can find a school that balances affordability with quality support.
FAQs
What are the best special schools in Ibadan?
Some of the best options include Aikea Special School, The Sterling Inclusive Academy, and Oke-Bola Special Basic School. The “best” depends on the child’s condition and the services required.
Are there government-owned special schools in Ibadan?
Yes. Oke-Bola Special Basic School and a few others are owned by the Oyo State Government, offering free or subsidized education for children with disabilities.
How much is the average school fee for special education?
On average, fees range from ₦100,000 to ₦300,000 per term, but this varies based on therapy, boarding, and other services provided.
Do special schools in Ibadan admit boarding students?
Some private schools have boarding facilities for students who require full-time supervision. Parents should confirm availability during admission inquiries.
Are there scholarships for special needs students?
A few NGOs and government programs occasionally sponsor students in public special schools. Parents can check with Oyo State Ministry of Education for current opportunities.
