Schools in Ireland’s most disadvantaged areas are set to receive additional resources to better support children and young people, as part of a new government initiative. Education Minister Helen McEntee has pledged to prioritize tackling educational inequality, with plans to introduce enhanced funding, staffing, and wellbeing supports for schools in need.
While the full details of the scheme are still being finalized, Minister McEntee emphasized that the program will build on existing measures designed to address educational disadvantage. She also announced that a new DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools) Action Plan will be published in 2025. This plan will focus on improving opportunities for at-risk children, developing innovative approaches to combat inequality, and creating a more flexible support system for schools.
Addressing Post-Pandemic Challenges
The Covid-19 pandemic has led to a significant rise in school absenteeism, a trend the minister is determined to reverse. As part of her strategy, McEntee plans to expand the Home School Community Liaison (HSCL) scheme, which helps bridge the gap between schools and families. She also aims to integrate other support services to develop targeted actions for improving attendance and engagement.
Speaking on RTÉ’s Drivetime, Minister McEntee outlined her vision for the next four years. “My goal is to ensure every young person is supported to reach their full potential,” she said. “The existing program has provided targeted measures for children in disadvantaged areas, but I want to take this even further.”
Focus on Trauma and Wellbeing
The minister highlighted the importance of addressing underlying issues such as intergenerational trauma, mental health challenges, and access to therapies. “It’s not just about reducing class sizes or increasing funding,” she explained. “We need to ensure children have access to the supports they need to overcome barriers to learning. Only then can they fully engage with the curriculum and achieve the best possible outcomes.”
McEntee also stressed the importance of collaboration, stating that the program will be developed in consultation with teachers, school leaders, and students.
Mixed Reactions from DEIS Schools
While the announcement has been welcomed by some, school leaders in Dublin’s DEIS schools have expressed cautious optimism. Conor McCarthy, Principal of Tallaght Community National School and a representative for a group of DEIS school principals, acknowledged the minister’s intentions but called for clarity on the specifics of the plan.
“We’ve been advocating for targeted supports to address the trauma experienced by children in DEIS schools,” McCarthy said. He pointed out that many children face significant barriers to learning, including poverty, abuse, neglect, and exposure to violence or substance abuse. “These issues are often the root cause of why children struggle with literacy and numeracy,” he added.
McCarthy urged the government to provide additional teaching staff to help schools address these challenges effectively. “Without the right resources, it’s difficult to break down these barriers and help children achieve their potential,” he said.
Closing the Attainment Gap
Minister McEntee has set a clear goal of narrowing the achievement gap between DEIS and non-DEIS schools. However, the success of the initiative will depend on the timely implementation of the promised supports and their alignment with the needs of schools and students.
As the government works to finalize the details of the enhanced DEIS plan, educators and advocates will be watching closely to ensure the measures deliver meaningful change for children in disadvantaged areas.
