asked the Minister for Education if he is aware that there is no child guidance service directly attached to the primary school system; and if he will introduce such a service.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Child Guidance Service.
41.
Pupil guidance in the sense in which it arises in post-primary schools does not arise in primary schools. The problem in these latter schools is mainly one of ascertaining pupils who are in need of remedial teaching.
A system of remedial teaching has been developed in primary schools; and in larger schools, and subject to certain conditions, a teacher additional to the normal staff warranted may be appointed for remedial work. In smaller schools it is sometimes found possible, through a degree of reorganisation, to provide remedial teaching for pupils requiring such special attention.
What advisory service is available to pupils in primary schools as such?
I have pointed out that the problem of pupil guidance, as we understand it in post-primary schools, is not available, but the basic consideration in relation to primary schools is in connection with remedial teaching.
Is the Minister aware of the number of children who quit school immediately after primary school and who are very much in need of guidance?
The Deputy is aware that a very high percentage of our young people go on to post-primary education now.
They are not guided as to what form their post-primary education should take. It is just a matter of chance for them.
I do not think so.