Scheme of ‘immense’ benefit to children

A programme which has been proven to improve behaviour in children with serious conduct difficulties and hyperactivity could save the State €4,800 for each child who uses it and would add just 1% to the annual spend of a primary school.

A conference yesterday heard the Incredible Years programme — pioneered in North America but now used in schools in many countries including Ireland — had resulted in improved behaviour in 71% of children who take part.

It is one of a range of programmes operated by the Archways organisation, funded in part by Atlantic Philanthropies.