Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 647: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the progress in regard to the commitment given in the programme for Government to provide improved training options for principals, middle management and aspiring school leaders. [28696/08]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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The Leadership Development for Schools Programme (LDS) has expanded the range of supports and services that it offers to school leaders and over 8,000 teachers from principals to middle managers have successfully completed LDS module programmes such as Misneach, Spreagagh, Forbairt, Tánaiste, Cumasú and Cothú. This investment has now led us to a point where there are structured continuous professional development opportunities for all school leaders.

In September 2008 a new Programme called Toraíocht will commence. This programme will lead to a Post Graduate Diploma in Educational Leadership and is a programme of continuous professional development for teachers interested in developing their leadership skills. It aims to enhance their current work and to support preparation for future senior leadership and management positions. It will develop the knowledge, understanding, attitudes and skills required for successful modern school leadership. Such a programme is both timely and necessary in the provision of high quality leadership to meet future challenges. There will be 160 participants on the initial Toraíocht course.