Richard Bruton
Ceist:366 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will introduce an alternative third level entry system for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. [25693/98]
Written Answers - Third Level Admission.
Entry arrangements to third level institutions are a matter for the institutions themselves.
In the university sector the Higher Education Authority provided funding of £260,000 and £475,000 in 1996 and 1997 for initiatives in a number of universities specifically relating to disadvantages students. Funding of £695,000 is being provided in 1998. These initiatives build on existing programmes and involve links with second level schools and local communities.
There are two aspects to these programmes, one involving assistance to some students to meet the points requirement for courses, enabling them to obtain a college place through the standard CAO entry procedure. The other aspect of the programmes is the special entry arrangements through which more flexible entry criteria are applied and various supports put in place for students entering by this method. Support for the university proposals is very firmly based on the intention of meeting set targets and progress reports will be submitted to the Higher Education Authority on each of the programmes funded.
In the technological sector, the Dublin Institute of Technology has a comprehensive set of activities in which the college is interacting with different disadvantaged groups in Dublin city and there are currently a number of courses in place for mature students from disadvantaged backgrounds. In addition, a policy decision has been taken by the Dublin Institute of Technology authorities that direct entry should occur in relation to second level students from disadvantaged backgrounds who do not meet the normal admission criteria.
There is also a pilot scheme which enables holders of NCVA level 2 awards to progress to designated certificate and diploma courses in the institutes of technology, which is an important development in establishing alternative progression pathways for students to higher levels of education and training.
Initiatives in the third level sector are one element of the wide range of measures in place to improve participation in education. These measures include the development of early childhood education, the allocation of additional resources to schools in disadvantaged areas, and a range of other initiatives to break the cycle of disadvantage.
I am sure that the Deputy will appreciate the multi-faceted nature of the initiatives under way which are indicative of my commitment to tackle educational disadvantage. My objective is to ensure that all available resources are targeted so that children who are educationally disadvantaged receive the support necessary to enable them to maximise their potential in the education system.