Pupils at urban disadvantaged schools in Ireland have lower reading and maths scores than their counterparts in schools with low concentrations of disadvantage.

This is according to a new Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) study, which also found children in these schools are more likely to be affected by higher absenteeism, literacy difficulties and less-experienced teachers.

ESRI and Trinity College Dublin researchers looked at the health, social and education progress of almost 20,000 students as part of the investigation, which is forming part of the wider Growing Up in Ireland study.

The ESRI stated: "Low levels of academic engagement and poor relations with their teachers and peers play a central role in explaining lower levels of school engagement and overall enjoyment of school."

It was also noted that problems recruiting and retaining experienced staff have been endured by schools involved in the Department of Education's Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools programme. 

Written by Donal Walsh

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