I propose to take Questions Nos. 557 and 558 together.
The staffing of a primary school is determined by reference to the enrolment of the school on 30 September of the previous school year. This is in accordance with guidelines agreed between this Department and the education partners. The enrolment of the school referred to by the Deputy on 30 September 2005 was 190 pupils. This enrolment will entitle the school to a staffing of principal and seven mainstream class teachers for the 2006-07 school year.
The agreement referred to can only be deviated from when a school experiences rapid growth in its enrolment. Rapid growth is defined as an increase in its enrolment in one year relative to the previous year of 25 pupils plus a stipulated excess of five pupils on the appointment figure. For this school to be considered for developing school status the school would require a minimum enrolment of 215 pupils on the 30 September 2006.
If the board of management of the school believes the enrolment of the school will increase to a minimum of 215 pupils by 30 September 2006, it may apply for a post under the developing school criteria as outlined in Department circular 23/06 which is available on my Department's website. My officials are in receipt of an application for additional accommodation at the school and further information as been sought from the school authority with a view to determining the long-term accommodation needs of the school.
Factors which will be considered in this assessment include the current and projected enrolment, demographic trends in the area and the likely impact of recent and planned housing developments. When the long-term accommodation needs are determined a decision will then be made on how best to provide an accommodation solution. The building project required will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme 2006-10.
My officials will be in contact with the school authority regarding its application under the additional accommodation scheme 2006 with a view to addressing its need for an additional classroom should the school make a successful application for a developing post.