The Inspectorate of the Department of Education has published the Department of Education Inspectorate Report (2021-2023) and Thematic Review, presenting many positive findings regarding educational provision in schools, early learning and care settings and [end intro} other educational settings in Ireland.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the quality of education provision in such settings between January 2021 and December 2023 and a thematic review of a number of aspects of education provision in Ireland.

Across the continuum of education provision for children aged from birth to eighteen years, inspectors found that children and young people generally experienced high-quality education. The report indicates that school and setting leaders, teachers and educators contributed significantly to maintaining stability in the quality of education provision both during the COVID-19 period and since then.

The report also identifies areas that require development and improvement to strengthen the education system in the coming years.

School attendance: The report notes how the Irish education system has been proactive in addressing school attendance issues that have come to the fore since COVID. It also notes that challenges remain in relation to ensuring that school attendance rates continue to improve to pre-pandemic levels. It highlights that strategies to address attendance should be underpinned by an awareness of the critical link between high-quality responsive teaching and consistently good attendance.

Assessment: One element of the provision of high-quality teaching identified as requiring improvement, to varying degrees, is that of assessment. The report identifies scope for improvement in assessment policies and approaches in a significant proportion of schools. In those schools, the capacity to gather and use assessment information and data to develop student learning plans was found to be underdeveloped. This finding is related to an identified need for better differentiation in teaching strategies and learning tasks in these schools to ensure that appropriate and adaptive teaching can facilitate student-centred learning.

Inclusive education: The inspection programme in primary schools, special schools and post-primary schools during the period 2023-2024 placed a focus on inclusion – with particular reference to the inclusion of children and young people with special educational needs. The inspection findings during that period show that the Irish education system has made significant progress towards inclusive provision. However, the findings also indicate that there are still areas that need improvement to ensure that all children have access to high-quality learning experiences and that they feel valued, respected and included in their school community.

Publishing the report, Chief Inspector Yvonne Keating said:

“Our inspections show that there are significant strengths across the Irish education system, spanning early years, primary, and post-primary levels. Important drivers of these achievements are the professionalism, skills, and commitment of those involved in teaching, in leading our schools and early learning and care settings, and in supporting the learning and wellbeing of children and young people. This strong foundation positions us well to make further progress towards educational excellence for all learners.”

Minister for Education Norma Foley welcomed the publication of the report by the Inspectorate:

“I am delighted to welcome this comprehensive and positive report, which draws upon extensive inspection findings and research taken from across our education sectors. The findings paint a picture of a stable and thriving education system; one that has demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability, particularly in the face of recent challenges.

“It acknowledges the significant strides made in creating active and stimulating learning environments, implementing child-centred curricula and striving to foster a sense of belonging among our young learners. These achievements are a testament to the unwavering commitment of our school leaders, teachers, staff members, students, families, and voluntary board members.

“While we should celebrate these successes, we should also recognise the areas identified for further development. The report provides valuable insights into where we can enhance our practices, particularly in the areas of assessment and inclusive education.

“Together, we will build upon this strong foundation to ensure that every child in Ireland has access to the highest quality education, nurturing their potential and preparing them for the challenges and opportunities of the future

VIEW Dept of Education Inspectorate Report (2021-2023) and Thematic Review

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