I propose to take Questions Nos. 390 and 395 together.
The transition year programme attracts considerable financial support from my Department. Students on the transition year programme attract the standard teaching resources in accordance with the approved pupil-teacher ratio and per capita grants towards recurrent expenditure at standard rates. An additional capitation grant of £50 per pupil in transition year is given; school authorities may expend the grant on teaching hours or on any other expenses related exclusively to the transition year programme. There is also in place a transition year curriculum support service that is funded by my Department. My Department intends to maintain this level of support for the programme.
The transition year programme is now offered in more than 500 schools, a significant increase on when the programme began in 1994. Ongoing evaluation by my Department's inspectorate indicates that schools demonstrate high levels of creativity while adhering to the overall programme guidelines. The expansion and the healthy state of the transition year programmes are attributable to the readiness of principals, co-ordinators, teachers, parents and pupils to engage in innovative ways of learning and teaching, as well as the excellent work of the support service.
The transition year programme provides an opportunity for both schools and pupils to develop an orientation towards preparation for life and work. It has enabled many schools to develop their links with the wider community. Transition year provides an opportunity for the reflection and guidance which facilitates mature and considered choice by pupils of their leaving certificate subjects.
