Niall Collins (Limerick County, Fianna Fail)
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381. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if a person (details supplied) can repeat sixth class; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13835/20]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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I acknowledge that this is a particularly challenging time for all students, and parents across the education system, but particularly for those students who will be transferring from primary to post-primary school.

My Department’s Continuity of Schooling Group has developed guidance for schools which includes advice on how best 6th class pupils can be supported to make the transition to post-primary school, given that they will not have the opportunity to engage in all of the traditional transition activities that they would normally have engaged in.

It is important that pupils move on with their peers and continue on to the next stage of their education. In general, gaps in pupils’ learning arising solely due to the emergency closure of schools should not result in a pupil repeating a year. When pupils have started back in school, the principal and teachers can assess their needs and adapt their teaching programme so that any gaps in their learning resulting from the emergency closure of schools can be addressed. For the vast majority of pupils, this will ensure progression is as seamless a manner as possible.

The guidance that issued to primary schools on Thursday 28th May includes information on managing transitions to include the move from primary to post-primary school. It sets out how existing resources can be utilised to assist with the transition.

The guidance can be accessed via the below link;