Vol. 563 No. 1
331 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will give details of the Early Start programme; the names of the schools participating in this programme in the Dublin 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13 and 17 areas as well as in north County Dublin; the way in which those schools recruit staff for the programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7191/03]
The Early Start pre-school pilot project is in place in 40 selected schools in designated areas of disadvantage. It is aimed at children who are considered to be most at risk of not reaching their educational potential and are aged between three and four years. Early Start units have been established in 40 schools and all of these schools are benefiting from additional resources to cater for the pre-school children attending.
Two trained teachers, two trained child care workers and parent volunteers staff a full early start unit. Some schools have a half unit, that is, one classroom staffed by a trained teacher and a trained childcare worker. The teachers are fully qualified staff members of the school with proven expertise in infant teaching. The minimum qualification for child care workers in early start is a one year full-time, post-leaving certificate level two qualification validated by the Further Education and Training Awards Council, FETAC, the national vocational certificate: community and health services child care level two or equivalent qualifications.
Schools in the Early Start Pre-School
Pilot Project 2002-2003
Cork1. Scoil Chroise Naofa, Blackrock, Cork.
2. Scoil Padre Pio N.S, Churchfield, Cork.
3. Scoil Mhuire Banrion, Mayfield, Cork.
4. Mhuire ar Chnoc h-Aoine, Knocknaheeny, Cork.
5. North Presentation NS, Gerald Griffin St., Cork.
6. Scoil Aiseiri Chriost, Farranree, Cork.
Dublin7. Presentation NS, Warrenmount, D8.
8. Holy Faith NS, The Coombe, D8.
9. SN Louise de Marillac JNS, Ballyfermot, D10.
10. Marist NS, Clogher Rd., Crumlin, D12.
11. SN Banrion na n-Aingeal 1, Ballyfermot, D10.
12. St. Malachy's BNS, Edenmore, Raheny, D5.
13. St. Kevin's BNS, Barry Ave, Finglas NW, D11.
14. SN Ide Cailini, Kilmore Road West, Artane, D5.
15. SN Na Maighdine Muire B, Ballymun, D9.
16. SN Naomh Finnin, Glenties Pk., Rivermount, Finglas South, D11.
17. Scoil Nano Nagle, JNS, Bawnogue,Clondalkin, D.22.
18. Our Lady Immaculate NS, Darndale, Malahide Rd., Dublin 17.
