Current policy promotes mainstream schooling for special needs children

It is expected that many will eventually shut because of ministers' policy of directing most children into mainstream schools.

But the Tories have claimed the Scottish Executive's policy is unrealistic and politically correct.

They said the education of all children in the class may suffer as teachers struggle to deal with needy children.

The party said it would guarantee that special schools stay open, if that was what parents wanted.

Integration plan

A statement from the Conservatives said: "We would end the presumption in favour of mainstream schooling and guarantee the continuation of special schools where there is parent demand for them by allowing funds to follow pupils."

Ministers at Holyrood believe most pupils with special needs should go to ordinary schools.

They want them to learn and grow up with ordinary children. The aim is to ensure people with disabilities or behaviour problems are integrated into society.