Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2020
251. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Education and Skills the status of the implementation of a notification procedure with regard to students on reduced timetables; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12513/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraDraft guidelines were developed to provide clarity to schools around reduced timetables and to set out the procedures to be followed by schools where such an option is being considered and used. The guidelines provide for TUSLA Education Support Service to be notified if a reduced timetable is implemented.
The aim is to ensure that the use of reduced timetables is limited solely to those circumstances where it is absolutely necessary. The draft guidelines are underpinned by the principles that a reduced timetable should not be used as a sanction; that it should be applied proportionately and should last only as long as is necessary to facilitate a return to school on a full-time basis.
A consultation process with education stakeholders was carried out as part of the overall process of finalising the guidelines. It is intended to publish guidelines on reduced timetables in due course. In the interim as the Deputy is aware school buildings have been closed since March 12thdue to Covid 19 and teachers have been engaging with pupils remotely.
During this Covid-19 school closure period, the Department has issued guidance to schools on continuation of learning, and this includes guidance on supporting pupils with special needs and pupils at risk of educational disadvantage. Guidance for parents is also available, including guidance where parents are concerned about the level of contact between the school and their child. These guidelines are available here: https://www.education.ie/en/Schools-Colleges/Information/continuity-of-schooling/continuity-of-schooling.html#schools
