The subject matter addressed in the study referred to by the Deputy is of interest to a number of Government Departments, primarily the Department of Education and also of course my own Department. At present, the Youthreach programme which is the central focus of the evaluation is operated on the basis of a joint delivery of programmes by FÁS and the vocational education committees.
This study provides us with a broad ranging insight into the profiles of early school leavers, their aspirations and the benefits which the participants gained from their participation on the programme. While a range of recommendations at various levels of detail are made in relation to the programme, the overall thrust of the approach required is encapsulated in the following extract from the report:
The statutory providers should adopt an unambivalent, client-centred philosophy that provides structured, integrated and clearly marked progression paths. Fundamental to this is the necessity to:
clearly define Youthreach, its purpose, boundaries etc.
commit to the long-term existence of this, or an alternative, early school leavers programme
ensure the integrated interaction of services at local level
provide adequate counselling /guidance and literacy /numeracy