Michael Healy-Rae
Question:527. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Education if she will address a matter (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57079/23]
View answerWednesday, 17 January 2024
Questions (527)
Written answers
The key factor for determining the level of staffing resources provided at individual school level is the staffing schedule for the relevant school year and pupil enrolments on the previous 30 September.
The staffing arrangements include a provision whereby schools experiencing rapid increases in enrolment can apply for additional permanent mainstream posts, using projected enrolment. The staffing process also contains an appeals mechanism for schools to submit a staffing appeal under certain criteria, including a specific one aimed at small schools, to an independent Primary Staffing Appeals Board.
The Department 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. In considering the level of EAL support to be allocated, the Appeals Board will consider those pupils in the school with less than B1 (Level 3) proficiency that have received less than 3 years EAL support.
The allocation of an Administrative Principal is based on the enrolment in the school. The thresholds are set out in Appendix B of Circular 0006/2023. Where a school has achieved the required enrolment on the previous 30th September, the additional position is allocated automatically.