Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 November 2020
453. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Education if one-to-one music lessons are permitted for leaving certificate students who are obliged to perform for a music practical examination in March and April 2021; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36808/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department has published a suite of helpful guidance for the safe and sustainable operation of schools. Each school is required to have a COVID-19 Response Plan for the safe operation through the prevention, early detection and control of COVID-19 in line with public health advice. This guidance is focused on the practical steps schools must take to minimise the risk of transmission of infection.
Schools have a particular role to play in establishing secure and safe learning environments, in supporting the wellbeing of all, and in planning collaboratively for teaching and learning in a way that enables all pupils to progress and flourish in the 2020/21 school year. Subjects which are being followed as part of the school curriculum, including music, can continue, once appropriate control measures are in place in line with a school’s COVID-19 Response Plan.
The specific focus of planning for individual subjects will vary from school to school in light of the individual school circumstances. Schools are advised to consult with guidance published by my Department is respect of practical subjects ‘Return to School Guidance for Practical Subjects in Post Primary Schools and Centres for Education’.
Further information is available at www.gov.ie/backtoschool.
Guidelines on undertaking private activities outside of school are not a matter for this Department.
