Schools that use support programmes ‘keep pupils for longer’

SCHOOLS which use extra supports effectively are reaping benefits for their students by keeping them in school relatively longer, research has found.

University College Cork’s Education Department examined the use and effects of various support programmes available to six vocational schools, community schools and comprehensive colleges in Cork city and county.

Each had a mix of supports, such as direct access to home school community liaison (HSCL) staff and educational welfare officers.