Damien English
Ceist:114 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science the current pupil teacher ratio at secondary level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30984/03]
Written Answers. - Pupil-Teacher Ratio.
The pupil-teacher ratio at second level has improved significantly in recent years.
The ratio fell from 16.0:1 in the 1996-97 school year to 13.6:1 in the 2002-03 school year. Based on projected enrolments, the ratio for the 2003-04 school year has further reduced to 13.48:1.
My Department will continue to seek further reductions in the pupil-teacher ratio within available resources and having regard to priorities of need within the education sector. Priority will be given to pupils with special needs and those from disadvantaged areas.
Question No. 115 answered with Question No. 72.