Jim Daly
Question:287. Deputy Jim Daly asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he supports teaching in primary schools under the FÁS WPP1 programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4072/14]
View answerTuesday, 28 January 2014
Questions (287)
Written answers
The Work Placement Programmes (FAS WPP1 for graduates and WPP2 for non-graduates), along with the JobBridge National Internship Scheme are managed by the Department of Social Protection.
In November 2010, Circular Letter 66/2010 issued by my Department set out how schools could participate in the FAS Work Placement Programme, operated by the Department of Social Protection since January 2012. In October 2011 by way of Circular Letter 46/2011 my Department authorised recognised schools and vocational educational committees to participate in the National internship Scheme - JobBridge which is also operated and funded by the Department of Social Protection.
Participation in WPP and JobBridge is entirely voluntary and schools may apply for placements/internships in whichever area they deem appropriate. Participating schools must comply with Department of Social Protection requirements for Host Organisations and also with the guidelines issued by my Department. A placement/internship must not cause an existing member of staff to be displaced from the school or be used to fill a current vacancy in the school (including a vacancy in a post of responsibility).
These schemes provide an opportunity for the exchange of expertise and experience between the host organisation and those in a placement/internship. The Department of Social Protection has indicated that there are currently no placements related to teaching under the WPP.