John Perry
Ceist:116 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Education and Science the policy and regulation regarding the supervision of children when having their breaks in their schoolyard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27141/00]
Written Answers. - Schoolyard Supervision.
The professional role of a teacher encompasses the performance of teaching and non-teaching duties. There is a long tradition of teachers supervising students within the school environs during the normal school day. However, all teachers would not be required to undertake these duties on a daily basis. It is a matter for local management to agree these operational arrangements with their teachers.
The rules for national schools oblige teachers to take all reasonable precautions to ensure the safety of pupils and to participate in supervising pupils when they are on the school premises.
While there are no specific rules governing the arrangements in second level schools there is an established tradition and practice that teachers undertake the necessary supervision of students under their control as required by school management.