Joan Collins
Ceist:170. Deputy Joan Collins asked the Minister for Education if class sizes in DEIS schools will be reduced. [30447/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 14 October 2020
Ceisteanna (170)
Freagraí scríofa
The DEIS programme allows for a reduced class size in Urban Band 1 primary schools with the application of a preferential staffing schedule to these schools of 20:1 at junior classes and 24:1 at senior classes to support those students at the highest risk of educational disadvantage.
As the Deputy may be aware, DEIS Plan acknowledges the allocation of teaching resources to DEIS primary schools with the highest concentrations of children at risk of educational disadvantage has served to improve learning outcomes. It also commits to the evaluation of the level of teaching resources for schools participating in DEIS to be undertaken to inform future policy in this area.
As part of Budget 2021, the reduction in the general primary staffing schedule applies to a significant number of DEIS schools (approximately 460), and funding will be provided to reduce the DEIS Urban Band 1 staffing schedule from 24:1 to 23:1 for senior schools.