Michael Creed
Question:443 Mr. Creed asked the Minister for Education and Science the conclusions drawn by his Department in the whole school evaluation pilot programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3074/00]
Written Answers. - School Evaluation Scheme.
My Department published a report on the whole school evaluation pilot project in December 1999. This report is an important contribution to the development of a new model of school evaluation and focuses on the pilot project experience from the perspective of all participants. The conclusions of the report are detailed in chapter seven under the sections entitled "The lessons of the WSE pilot project" and "The future of Whole School Evaluation". The principal conclusions drawn by my Department as presented in the WSE pilot project report are as follows: the WSE model is an effective approach to evaluating the functioning of schools and the pilot project schools indicated considerable support for its continued development; the WSE process should take full account of the planning development priorities identified in the school plan-as both school development planning and WSE evolve in the education system, this link can be strengthened; WSE criteria of evaluation used in the pilot project need further refinement, particularly in the areas of the quality of school ethos and support for students; the WSE process should be developed to provide for greater consultation with parents by inspectors. This issue is being addressed in the context of a draft circular on WSE currently being prepared; WSE school reports which contain recommendations with resource implications for schools should be fully considered by relevant sections within my Department and since time demands on schools and the Inspectorate during WSE proved very significant, further reflections on time management in relation to the WSE process is required. This is currently being examined in the context of revised guidelines on WSE for inspectors and schools.
All conclusions drawn by my Department in relation to the WSE pilot project are being carefully considered in consultation with the education partners.