Resources – Supporting Ukraine Students
- Published: 24 March 2022
Schools received information from the Department of Education last week about resources to support the teaching and learning of students from Ukraine. In addition, guidance was provided in a subsequent letter to schools on enrolments, providing support, EAL materials, CPD etc.
A number of additional resources have been made available to schools by other agencies including NEPS, NCCA and SEN Support Teacher groups. These resources are now available in one central location on the homepage of www.ippn.ie. This section of the website will be updated on receipt of new resources.
External Research: Exploring the selection of Catholic Primary School Leaders in the Republic of Ireland
- Published: 10 March 2022
Cliona O’Keeffe, principal of Our Lady's BNS, Ballinteer, Dublin 16, is undertaking doctoral research with the University of Glasgow. Her study aims to establish the factors that principals, aspiring principals and selection board members perceive as important in deciding on the selection of individuals to become principals for Catholic primary schools. In particular, the study will focus on the influence of Church, State and Community organisations in deciding what makes a 'suitable' school leader.
To complete the 10-minute survey, follow this link
For more information, contact Cliona by email to 2343251o@student.gla.ac.uk or the research supervisors, Dr Georgina Wardle and Prof Bob Davis by email to georgina.wardle@glasgow.ac.uk and robert.davis@glasgow.ac.uk
Inspectorate - Incidental Inspections
- Published: 10 March 2022
The Inspectorate has advised that the 2-day notice period for incidental inspections will remain in place until Easter. Some schools are using this time to identify issues they would like to discuss with the inspector during the visit. The emphasis of these visits is on advice and support for school leaders and teachers. There may be gathering of data in some schools, but this is for research purposes only. Incidental visits will continue after Easter in addition to some curriculum evaluations. WSEs will not resume until the Autumn.
Ukraine – Supporting Children in our School Communities
- Published: 10 March 2022
School communities have begun to welcome children from Ukraine and will continue to do so in the coming weeks. Images and talk of war can be upsetting and raise anxiety levels within the school community. To support the children, the Department of Education has published supporting guidance for schools and parents. A cross departmental committee has been established by the Department of Children and includes the DE and Inspectorate. Schools will receive communication from this group as plans progress. Updates will also be included in the weekly e-scéal.
The International Confederation of Principals has been working closely with school leaders in Ukraine. In a podcast, past Presidents Ari Pokka and Fiona Forbes describe a recent visit to the country and the brave leadership being shown by Ukrainian school leaders. Both Ari and Fiona explore how best support can be shown for our colleagues in Ukraine.
Professional Guidance – Dignity at Work
- Published: 03 March 2022
Many schools are now considering how to involve all staff in drawing up an inclusive and comprehensive Dignity and Respect at Work (DRAW) Charter and Policy. Many school leaders will be in a position to initiate this process with staff members themselves, but for those schools where there may be existing staff difficulties, the option of employing an outside facilitator could be considered. IPPN has produced a DRAW Toolkit to assist school leaders and staff members in their journey towards a DRAW Charter and Policy. It can be accessed at https://www.ippn.ie/index.php/resources/staff-relations There will also be an opportunity to attend a seminar on this topic at Conference in May.
