Ivor Callely
Ceist:246 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Education the policy on schools which are clearly defined to educate a particular sex only; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Policy on Single Sex Schools.
I am anxious to promote the organisation, or reorganisation, of schools on co-educational lines on the basis that co-education is actively encouraged as the norm at both primary and secondary levels.
I have commissioned the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) to undertake research in the area of co-education in post-primary schools with the following terms of reference, viz:
(a) to test whether co-education has negative effects on girls' education.
(b) to identify the relevant causes if this is the case.
(c) to develop models of good practice by schools and teachers which would lead to the elimination of the negative effects.
When I receive the report of the ESRI I will decide on the further action to be taken.