Vol. 489 No. 6
731 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Education and Science the assistance, if any, which is available from his Department in relation to parents who want advice regarding the education of their son who is over 15 years of age and who cannot secure a place in a secondary school due to non-attendance; the options, if any, available to a child in this situation in relation to his future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9000/98]
I am aware of the problem of children who leave school early and do not wish to return to formal education. Pupils leave school early for a variety of reasons. My Department gives assistance in securing placement in individual cases where this is requested by the child's parents or guardian. Typically, this can arise where a pupil has been suspended as a result of disruptive behaviour and where alternative arrangements need to be made. In these circumstances, my Department endeavours through a process of consultation with the schools to assist in the reinstatement of the pupil in the school or alternatively, his/her placement in another school. In more difficult situations, my Department's psychological service is available to assess pupils to determine the nature and extent of any special needs with a view to having them addressed in the most appropriate manner.
My Department has put in place a range of strategies to optimise the participation in education of young people. These commence at a very young age and later on include in-school supports and home-school liaison and curricular reforms which are designed to provide a more broadly based education and a range of choices to meet students' interests and abilities.
