Submission to the 'Better Literacy and Numeracy for Children and Young People: A Draft National Plan to Improve Literacy and Numeracy in Schools’

Abstract

Overall, Barnardos welcomes this Plan and its actions. There is a definite need for a national strategy to drive and improve literacy and numeracy standards throughout our educational system. It is heartening to see that the important role that Early Childhood Care and Education can play in acquiring literacy and numeracy skills is recognised and aims to be capitalised on further. To improve the Plan, Barnardos believes that the language and actions outlined should be more child-focused. Ensuring the actions to be undertaken are in the best interests of children will help motivate adults to make the required changes. As Tim Shanahan correctly identifies improvements for the child are only achieved if they have a more positive experience of learning and of school in general.