Ms Anne Howard:

One point that I would like to add is that in terms of allocations of time back to school and the use of the allocation, one step that would be hugely important in making the transition from primary to post-primary school is that an amount of time would be allocated to schools for engagement. My colleague referenced earlier the communication between schools within a geographic area. Some very important work that many post-primary schools are doing is that they are visiting primary schools so that they get the backstory. They are making those connections and getting the information, so by the time the student comes into the post-primary sector the school has a very good and very clear picture. That is an essential piece of work that should be included and embedded in the use of the allocated time.

As my colleague, Mr. Duffy says, the NCSE lists of primary schools should be a clear flag and indicator to the post-primary sector of how many places are and will be required down the line. It is not a speeding train. It is there on paper, and it is available. It is about planning, which is key.