asked the Minister for Education if secondary school students, having to repeat a year, are not recognised for a capitation grant and are not included in the quota numbers of the school; and, if, in view of the benefit to young, immature or academically weak pupils of an extra year's schooling, particularly if they are to be among the increasing number seeking places in United Kingdom universities, which expect its students to be much older, she will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Secondary School Students.
287.
1. Circular Letter M57/87 which issued to post-primary schools in August 1987 stated that pupils who have sat the leaving certificate examination may be enrolled as recognised pupils to repeat the final year of the leaving certificate course in 1987-88 subject to the payment of a repeat course fee of £100. In addition, an examination entry fee of £100 applies, in those cases, instead of the ordinary entry fee. Pupils whose parents or guardians are the holders of a current medical card are exempted from these fees; 2. Except as provided for in paragraph 1 above a pupil may not repeat any year of the second-level course, save in exceptional cases such as prolonged absence due to ill health. Applications for such exemption should be made in writing by the manager-principal of the school concerned. Alleged immaturity is not of itself accepted as sufficient grounds for repeating. Pupils repeating a year without the approval of the Department are not counted for capitation grant or quota purposes.