Paul Donnelly (Dublin West, Sinn Fein)
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372. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if she will provide an update on the review of a school model (details supplied); and if she will consider expanding the model to other areas. [14676/23]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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In July 2016, the Government launched a major initiative for Dublin’s North East Inner City (NEIC) to oversee the long term, social and economic regeneration of the area. The Mulvey Report entitled “Dublin’s North East Inner City – Creating a Brighter Future” was published in February 2017 and made a number of recommendations. As part of this response, in November 2018, the model referred to by the Deputy was launched as a pilot programme within three post-primary schools in the NEIC.

The model is now in operation across five NEIC post-primary schools, with multiple partners supporting the programme.

It is an education initiative that combines post primary school with elements of further education and workplace experience. It requires a three-way partnership between school, higher/further education institution(s) and industry partners. It includes a structured workplace learning strand with mentoring, worksite visits, speakers, and project days. Whilst the acquisition of relevant IT skills in key areas are included in the course work, the model also seeks to encourage and develop students’ problem solving and creativity and places emphasis on teamwork, collaboration and communication skills. Students involved in the programme work towards the achievement of a “Special Purpose Award”, equivalent to 10 credits at QQI Level 6.

While the initial feedback and evaluation of the programme at Junior Cycle and Senior Cycle level has been positive, a full cycle of the programme in post-primary is yet to be completed. My Department will continue to monitor, support and evaluate the programme throughout its implementation and this will inform future decisions, including decisions around expanding the model to other areas and to other schools.