Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 November 2023
267. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for Education if she will provide the formula used in calculating EAL posts with schools applying for such posts, as is the case already with NEEAL posts where the formula is shared, as this would assist schools in their application; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [52092/23]
View answerThe Special Education Teaching allocation provides a single unified allocation for special educational support teaching needs to each school, based on each school’s educational profile and also encompasses the Language Support (EAL) allocation that schools were allocated in previous years. All schools are advised in the first instance to review whether the needs of newly enrolled pupils can be met from within existing allocations.
The Department also provides specific English Language support to schools with pupils newly arrived into the country that have English as an additional language.
Schools may apply for further language support through the staffing appeals process. Having considered the circumstances outlined by the school and having regard to the high number of pupils requiring EAL support, additional support may be approved to meet the educational needs of such pupils. The Primary Staffing Appeals Board operates independently of the Department and its decision is final.
