As part of the Erasmus+ programme, there are up to 8 Post Primary schools that were awarded grants for this activity 2020. These projects are up to 36 months in duration and can begin from 1September 2020. Schools involved in School Exchange Partnerships (KA229) have been informed by the European Commission recommends that schools should commence project activities through online and virtual activities using the eTwinning platform.
Léargas, as the National Agency with responsibility for delivery of Erasmus + programme in post-primary schools, have a dedicated area on their website detailing the measures to be followed by schools. These measures are informed by the latest advice from all public health authority sources, as well as travel advice from the Department of Foreign Affairs as appropriate.
It is also posssible that student exchanges may take place outside the Erasmus + framework. In these cases, it is a requirement for anyone coming into Ireland, from locations other than those with a rating of ‘normal precautions’ (“green”), to restrict their movements for 14 days. This means staying indoors in one location and avoiding contact with other people and social situations as much as possible.
The school has a duty of care to all of its pupils and staff members. If a school has reasonable grounds for believing that its duty of care toward its staff and pupils is being undermined in circumstances where a person – staff member or pupil - has not observed the mandatory requirement to restrict movements for 14 days following return from a non-green list country, it is reasonable for the school to refuse access to the pupil or staff member during this period.
