The number of learning support teachers at primary level has increased from 1,242 in 1997 to 1,485 at present.
While regard is had to the number of schools served by individual learning support teachers, the key factor in the allocation of such posts is the number of pupils requiring the service. There are approximately 181 learning support teachers providing learning support to four primary schools; approximately 81 learning support teachers providing learning support to five primary schools; approximately 36 learning support teachers providing learning support to six primary schools; approximately eight learning support teachers providing learning support to seven primary schools; and approximately two learning support teachers providing learning support to more than seven primary schools.