Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 9 October 2019
65. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reason a person (details supplied) cannot receive an allocation of further home tuition hours; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41311/19]
View answerThe purpose of my Department’s Home Tuition Grant Scheme is to provide funding towards the provision of a compensatory educational service for students enrolled in school, with a significant medical condition which has, and is likely to cause, major disruption to their attendance in school on a continuing basis.
Home tuition is not an alternative to a school placement and is provided in very limited and specific circumstances.
Eligibility for applications received under the Medical Strand of the Scheme is assessed having regard to, although not limited to, the following criteria:
- The student’s attendance levels during the previous school year
- A relevant medical/professional report
Generally for students at post primary, grant aid based on a range of between 2 and 10 hours tuition may be approved with the allocation reflecting the level of attendance in school.
Based on the attendance information provided in the application referred to by the Deputy my Department sanctioned a Home Tuition grant towards the provision of 2 hours tuition per week.
The Home Tuition Grant Scheme provides for an appeal process and details are set out in the decision letter which issued to the applicant.
Appeals may be submitted in writing to my Department’s Special Education Section outlining the reasons for the appeal along with any additional supporting documents or reports, as appropriate.
