Over 100 schools to get extra support under plan tackling disadvantage

Minister for Education Richard Bruton will launch a plan this morning aimed at tackling educational disadvantage in schools.

The ‘Plan to tackle educational disadvantage’ is expected to contain some 100 actions and will lead to 110 schools across the country receiving additional supports.

The aim of the plan is “to make sure every child has the opportunity to fulfil their potential” and it is also expected to include a process for assessing schools where children are at risk of dropping out of education.

Speaking in December, Mr Bruton said new pathways will be developed to ensure those at a disadvantage can secure good careers through higher education and apprenticeships.

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There are currently 800 schools in disadvantaged areas benefit from increased State supports under the Deis (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools) scheme.

Expertise gained through the Deis scheme will be shared to improve learning outcomes and the new plan is expected to include a number of pilot projects aimed at introducing measures which have been shown to work well in other settings.

The plan will be launched this morning during a visit by Mr Bruton to Our Lady Immaculate Junior National School in Darndale.