Up and Away - National Council for Curriculum and Assessment

Does the legal status of the pupil have any relevance?
No. Not to the pupil’s entitlement to education. However, the following issues may have some bearing
on a child’s progress in formal education:
The living conditions of children may impact on their ability to do homework properly or to socialise with
other children outside school.
Children whose parents are on a work permit or work visa typically spend a limited period of time in
Ireland. The children of medical personnel often spend a five-year period in Ireland. For these children it
is critical that their access to education in Ireland is successful in this short period as they will experience
interruption and the continuation of education elsewhere.
How do we deal with different school starting ages?
It is important to remember that children who arrive in Irish schools at 6 years of age may not have
attended school previously. Therefore, the induction period must be particularly sensitive as the child is
suddenly immersed in 1) a new environment and 2) an unfamiliar language and, in addition, may be out
of step with peers in relation to literacy development.
What should we deal with in the induction process?
We cannot assume that the child’s parents have been able to provide any information about school in
Ireland. It is essential to make sure the child understands the basics:
That there are rules. It may be necessary to mime these.
That there is a routine to the day – breaks, etc.
The procedure for asking permission and going to the toilet.
Where the important parts of the school are located – playground, toilets, etc.
What do we do if the child doesn’t talk?
Section 1 General information for schools
Frequently asked questions
The child may be going through the Silent Period – see pages 24 and 25 for details, and also how to
monitor a child’s progress during this phase.
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