Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 September 2021
581. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Education the reason secondary school children are still not allowed access to lockers and are being required to carry excessively heavy school bags as a result; and if she will clarify the reason for children to be denied access to lockers in schools. [42561/21]
View answer607. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Education if national guidance has been issued to post-primary schools on whether students can access lockers this term or if it is up to each individual school to decide on this matter; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42686/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 581 and 607 together.
Each school is required to have a COVID-19 Response Plan for the safe operation through the prevention, early detection and control of COVID-19 in line with public health advice. This guidance is focused on the practical steps schools must take to minimise the risk of transmission of infection, including physical distancing measures and reducing the risk of congregation of students. It is a matter for each individual school to implement these measures locally taking into account its individual circumstances such as school layout.
My Department is aware that positive action has been taken by many schools on the issue of heavy school bags. Actions consist of a range of measures, including the arrangement of the timetable into double class periods, active liaison with parents and the co-ordination of homework by subject teachers.
The use of digital resources by teachers and students in schools is increasing. While conventional textbooks are still widely used, a number of schools have introduced or are considering introducing e-books and other digital resources to enhance students' work in school and at home. Schools can use the book grant scheme to purchase a range of digital resources relevant to the curriculum.
It should be also be noted that Scoilnet.ie, the Department funded website, supports Primary and Post-Primary teachers in sharing and finding useful resources for the classroom, including the World Books online encyclopedia resource, and other valuable online content and resources to assist in teaching and learning.
Ultimately it is a matter for each individual school to determine which particular measures are most suited to its individual circumstances as to how the school concerned organises teaching and learning at this time.
