Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Independent)
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513. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the training and support she is putting in place for primary and secondary school teachers who are teaching children who are experiencing homelessness; if she is conducting research into this area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42587/15]

Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour)
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Inclusive education is a mandatory area of study for all student teachers who are undertaking programmes of initial teacher education at primary and post primary levels.

The Teaching Council of Ireland's requirements for initial teacher education programmes set out learning outcomes for graduates of the programmes. The first learning outcome identified for graduates concerns ethical standards and professional behaviour and refers, amongst other things, to the teacher's unique role as a professional in providing for the holistic development of students. This child-centred approach permeates the wide range of skills, competences and knowledge that the initial teacher education programmes should inculcate in future teachers.

The graduate is also required to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the factors that promote and hinder learning, the impact of pupils' backgrounds and identities on learning and the need to provide for the holistic development of the learner, particularly through differentiated approaches.

My Department, through the teacher support services and the National Education Psychological Service (NEPS), also provide ongoing support to teachers and schools. Support in the area of well-being continues to equip teachers to deal with social issues they encounter in the classroom.

In terms of teaching and learning in schools, the issue of homelessness is covered in an age appropriate manner throughout the school curriculum, in particular within the area of Social, Personal and Health Education, with the focus on human rights and human dignity.

The Deputy will be aware that statutory responsibility for educational welfare lies with my colleague the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs. The Educational Welfare Service of TUSLA, an agency of that Department, has statutory powers to work with children and their families who may be experiencing difficulty with school attendance including issues arising from homelessness.

I understand that the Educational Welfare Service of TUSLA is engaging with the Homeless Services in relation to children of school-going age and their families who are experiencing homelessness.