First school reports published but parents need ‘wider package’

PARENTS have welcomed the publication of school inspection reports for the first time, but said a wider package of information to allow them compare schools should also be available.

National Parents Council — Primary (NCP-P) chief executive Fionnuala Kilfeather said Education Minister Mary Hanafin must ensure the reports give parents meaningful information and a rigorous appraisal of the work of their children’s schools.

The first 23 reports of whole school evaluations (WSEs) were placed on the Department of Education website overnight, after objections from primary teachers were satisfied in recent days, with an appeals procedure for those who are unhappy with the content of reports.