Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 12 Nov 1997

Vol. 482 No. 6

Written Answers. - Teacher Counsellor Service.

Joe Higgins

Question:

435 Mr. Higgins (Dublin West) asked the Minister for Education and Science the professional background and support his Department will provide for teacher counsellors in relation to their appointment in primary schools; if his Department will provide proper professional in-service training for teacher counsellors; if his Department will provide funding for materials, books and other requirements for teacher counsellors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18625/97]

Tony Gregory

Question:

460 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans, if any, he has to extend the teacher and counsellor project. [18873/97]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 435 and 460 together.

My Department has already provided significant in-service training for the teachers involved in the teaching counsellor pilot scheme.

An induction programme which focused on counselling skills was held in 1996 and the teachers concerned are currently participating in a diploma course in Trinity College Dublin. In the context of this course, teachers have access to the extensive library facilities of that college. In addition, the West Dublin Education Centre has purchased a wide variety of appropriate books and materials to which the teaching counsellors also have access.

A steering committee, which is focused on the in-service elements of this pilot scheme, meets on a regular basis in the Dublin West Education Centre. Membership of this committee includes officials from my Department, representatives of the teaching counsellors and school principals involved in the scheme.

The operation of the pilot phase of the teaching counsellor scheme is being closely monitored by my Department's inspectorate. A detailed evaluation of the scheme is currently under way. I expect to receive a report on the outcome of the evaluation before the end of the current school year.

The question of any futher expansion of the scheme will be considered following completion of the evaluation.