New scheme aims to ‘break the taboo’ around periods in primary schools
“The button will be a symbol” of reassurance A new initiative launched by the Department of Education aims to confront the stigma surrounding periods in primary schools. The ‘Buttoned Up’ scheme will ensure school staff wear special button badges, signifying that they can provide period products to students in need. Nurse and barrister Ellie Loftus, […]
2 years ago
School forced to send substitute teachers home amid staff shortage
A principal of a school in Dublin has branded the Department of Education’s response to the teacher shortage “a disgrace” after being forced to send home substitute teachers. Speaking on RTÉ’s Morning Ireland, Tonya Hanly of Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School in Dublin 8 said she was forced to send home two teachers who […]
2 years ago
Free counselling pilot scheme introduced for all primary school children
Children can access 8 one-on-one counselling sessions with Department of Education-approved counsellors. From this September, primary school students in counties Cavan, Laois, Leitrim, Longford, Mayo, Monaghan, and Tipperary will be able to access free counselling and mental health supports. These seven counties have been selected to take part in the €5 million pilot scheme. The […]
3 years ago
Norma Foley says sex education syllabus will bring “real experience of young people”
The syllabus hasn’t been updated in 20 years Ireland’s new sex education curriculum that was published this week by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, will be introduced for all Junior Cycle students from September. It will provide 100 hours of learning over the three-year Junior Cycle for 12-to 15-year-olds. It plans to address […]
3 years ago
Norma Foley announces plans to tackle bullying in Irish schools
The plan covers various aspects. Norma Foley has announced that she plans to implement a new project in order to prevent and address bullying in schools. Cineáltas: Action Plan on Bullying is set to tackle cyber-bullying, racist bullying, gender-identity bullying and sexual harassment in schools, as well as other issues. The initial steps included will […]
3 years ago
Here’s the new primary school curriculum explained
A “groundbreaking day for education” Education Minister Norma Foley has announced new framework for all primary and special schools in the country. These are the most significant changes to be made to the primary school curriculum in 25 years. This morning she revealed the new plans that she says “places the child at the centre […]
3 years ago