Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I cannot speak to the Deputy's experience but I also have considerable experience in the school sector. I know that schools must be in a position to produce the portfolio showing the interventions over a two-year period; for example, where there has been engagement with the special education teacher and the various interventions introduced into the school. When the inspectorate visits a school, its officials are entitled to see that information and how it is being progressed. The emphasis is on ensuring the child, or young person at post-primary level, gets every possible opportunity to be integrated into the class and be part of the class. Where that is not possible or where it is flagged by the student, parent or guardian, the school is obliged to show the two-year portfolio or a record of the two-year intervention that is there. I can only speak to my own experience, but differentiated learning is part of the CPD programme and schools have to stand over the judgment they make. I respect their ability to make that judgment and they are best placed to do it. I would not for one minute expect that any principal would make that judgment based on a five-minute conversation and I say that with the utmost of respect to the Deputy. I am long enough in this area to know that the responsibilities conferred upon a principal are taken seriously and that when the inspectorate requests to see the information, it is provided by the school. That is my personal experience.