Plans to tackle educational disadvantage with Deis+ scheme welcomed by school principals

Education Minister Helen McEntee has announced her plans to roll out a new programme of work aimed at tackling educational disadvantage. This includes the introduction of a Deis+ scheme, as well as the development of a new Deis action plan.

Plans to introduce a Deis+ scheme targeting the schools working with the highest levels of disadvantage have been welcomed by school principals who campaigned for the measure.

However, the group has also called for any plans to include a strong focus on trauma-informed supports and therapies, which they believe will make the biggest difference in the lives of their students.

Education Minister Helen McEntee has announced her plans to roll out a new programme of work aimed at tackling educational disadvantage. This includes the introduction of a Deis+ scheme, as well as the development of a new Deis action plan.

The Deis+ advocacy group, which includes primary school principals working in Tallaght, Ballymun and Darndale, have campaigned for this measure for years, according to principal Conor McCarthy.

“Recognition that there are pockets of the country which are affected by extreme disadvantage is good progress to see," he said.

“We are happy that the announcement seems to indicate that some of the supports that will be provided will be in terms of funding, and teaching posts.

“Those are things we see as important. We really want to keep an emphasis on the fact that what will make the biggest difference in the lives of these children will be multi-disciplinary interventions happening in school — speech and language therapy, counselling, and occupational therapy as well as trauma informed practices.

“Those things will have the biggest and greatest impact on the literacy and numeracy scores, and closing the gap that exists between our schools and others seems to be a priority to Government.”

While the exact details are still being finalised, Ms McEntee is understood to be considering enhanced funding, staffing, and priority access to wellbeing supports.

Ms McEntee also plans to focus on improving progression rates by addressing Leaving Certificate retention in Deis post-primary schools. She is also expected to announce an expansion of the Home School Community Liaison scheme.