IPPN

Published: 11 May 2023

The final term of the school year often brings with it conflict, arguments and tensions. Many of these escalate from seemingly minor issues into managing a sudden difficult conversation for which you are unprepared. Difficult conversations at this time of the year can arise from the splitting and grouping of classes, class allocation or complaints about incidents arising with children. These may take place with staff or parents. The essential element in any conversation is preparation, but managing a conversation where emotions are high requires a calm positive response.

All communication takes place within the context of a relationship. It may not be the right time or place to have a conversation. The other person will have rehearsed what they are about to say. However, do not end a conversation like this abruptly. Reassure the person that you want to understand their perspective and seek to resolve the issue together. In order to do this, you need to give it the time it deserves. Agree a time to have the conversation. Write a script in your mind for the words you would use and become comfortable with them.

It may be something such as

“I would like to talk to you about _____ and would first like to hear your point of view, so that we can resolve this together.” Write your own script when there is no issue. Rehearse it. This gives you time to prepare for the conversation. Remember that it is not all about you and not all about the other person. It is all about achieving a balance between listening and talking.

The Communications Resource Bundle in the Resources section of www.ippn.ie may be useful in preparing for a difficult conversation. The IPPN Leadership Support Team are available also to assist and support you in this regard.

Published: 04 May 2023

To assist with teacher supply challenges, the Teaching Council has introduced an amendment to the Teaching Council (Registration) Regulations. The amendment now facilitates the acceptance of applications from primary teachers who have qualified outside of Ireland but who have not completed the required period of induction in the country in which they qualified. Applications will be accepted from 22 February 2023 until 1 February 2024.

Click here for more information

Published: 04 May 2023

Barnardos are seeking input from school leaders to help in the delivery of supports for Ukrainian children. The survey takes approximately 5 minutes and can be accessed HERE 

Click here for translated Helpline and therapeutic support posters for parents

If you have any queries, please contact Iryna Matuzova (iryna.matuzova@barnardos.ie)

Published: 04 May 2023

When it comes to the administration and implementation of the School Books Grant, schools will differ in how the grant will be managed. Many schools already administer a Book Rental Scheme and will have a stock of textbooks. Advice and guidance is contained in School Books Grant – Guidelines for Primary and Special Schools. You may also wish to consider the following areas as arrangements are made over the next number of weeks.

Booksellers have indicated their willingness to engage with schools to ease the administration load in implementing the scheme.
Once class teachers have drawn up a list of textbooks, workbooks and stationery, discuss with staff how much workbooks contribute to quality teaching and learning. Agree the list for each class. What is the best way for books to be delivered – individual or class packs? Agree what is included in the pack. When communicating with parents, clearly state what the grant covers and equally what is not covered.

When engaging with suppliers, the following questions may prove helpful:

• Will the supplies be delivered to the school?
• Will they be delivered in class or individual pupil packs?
• Will they deliver during the summer?
• Will they invoice in September? One invoice and one payment will reduce the amount of administration and be easier to monitor when checking invoice against supplies.
• Will they keep an account of each class list to facilitate the ordering of books for children who enroll during the year?
• Will they accept returns of books for pupils who may not attend in September?
• Do they provide a book covering service? There may be a fee for this that needs to be factored into the cost.

Remind parents also that books are on loan and have to be returned at the end of the school year.