Towards a Better Future

Introduction
Introduction
A significant and enduring feature of Irish educational history is the deep-rooted desire and
respect for education evidenced by Irish parents. Even in times of great political and economic
hardship, parents sought schooling for their children. As the school system evolved, parents
took advantage of every opportunity made available to them to improve the access of their
children to schooling. An associated striking feature of Irish educational tradition has been
the respect and status thathas been accorded to the role of the teacher, and the high quality
of applicants attracted to the profession. These traditional features form a valued strength of
the contemporary schooling system.
The primary, secondary and vocational school systems have their roots in the era when Ireland
formed part of the British Empire. Their origination and structure were shaped by the political,
religious, economic and social forces of the period. Following political independence, three eras of
particular policy change occurred – 1922-1934, the 1960s, and the 1990s, which have further shaped
the school system of today. However, legacy issues from all stages of development continue to have
an influence on aspects of current schooling policy.
The following table sets out some summary facts of the contemporary education system for the
year 2015-16.
Totals Schools Teachers Students
Primary & Special Schools 3,262 34,576 553,380
Second-level Schools 735 26,804 345,550
Rapidly-growing Student Population
■ Primary: 553,380 in 2015 expected to grow to 574,000 in 2018
■ Secondary: 345,550 in 2015, to grow to 411,000 by 2025
■ Immigrant students comprise 10.6% of primary students and 12% of post-primary students
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