IPPN

Primary schools debate [IrishExaminer]

Published: 15 May 2010

TÁNAISTE Mary Coughlan has arranged a Dáil debate on the future patronage of primary schools next Thursday.

The Education Minister gave a commitment to opposition TDs last week to hear views on how the diversification of Irish society should be reflected in the schools system. The debate comes as the Department of Education finalises a list of 10 areas around the country where there may be scope for the Catholic Church to divest ownership of primary schools in communities where there may be demand for alternative forms of patronage.

Govt 'must open twice as many schools as normal' [IrishExaminer]

Published: 15 May 2010

Primary schools are facing an unprecedented level of demand next year with double the number of school openings required, according to Educate Together.

The group are calling on the Minister for Education and Skills to urgently address the need for new schools in 43 areas nationwide.

Speaking from the organisation's AGM, Chief Executive Paul Rowe said the department must open twice as many schools compared to previous years.

Full Story: www.irishexaminer.com

Violent behaviour on the increase in primary schools, survey reveals [Independent.ie]

Published: 15 May 2010

VIOLENT behaviour is on the increase in primary schools, a shocking new study reveals.

The survey of 1,000 principals, or one in three in the country, also found increasing levels of anxiety among children and soaring levels of attention disorders. And half said depression among their pupils was on the rise.

In at least three cases, primary schools reported pupils took their own lives over the past year.

Since 1990, nearly 60 children aged between five and 14 have committed suicide.

Up to 1,050 people took part in the study by the Irish Primary Principals Network (IPPN).

Full Story: www.independent.ie

Sex education 'must be taught in senior cycle' [Independent.ie]

Published: 15 May 2010

THE Department of Education will write to every secondary school in the country to insist sex education be taught to Leaving Certificate students.

This follows a study which shows that three-quarters of students indicated they had no relationships and sexuality Education (RSE) classes in senior cycle in the past year.

The Department of Education and Skills said the survey revealed "disturbingly low levels" of the classes being taught.

A department spokeswoman said that all schools were required to implement an RSE programme in senior cycle. Schools and boards of management would be contacted by letter and reminded of their obligation, she added.

Full Story: www.independent.ie

Cuffe welcomes National Walk to School Week 17-21 May 2010 [transport.ie]

Published: 14 May 2010

Students from all over Ireland will take part in walking initiatives to show their support for a greener and healthier environment during this year's National Walk to School Week, 17-21 May. Green-Schools across the country will encourage pupils, parents and teachers to walk to school by holding events such as Walk to School days, Walk on Wednesday, Feet First Fridays, sponsored walks, and walking fancy dress competitions.

Schools this year will be taking part in the Green-Schools 'National WOW (Walk on Wednesday) Day' on May 19, to help An Taisce Green-Schools reach the target of 20,000 students walking to school all over Ireland. The week will also be an opportunity for schools to promote activities aimed at raising awareness of the benefits of walking to school as well as other more sustainable options on the school run as an alternative to the private car.

Full Story: www.transport.ie