Submission to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Education and Skills on the Current use of Reduced Timetables

Citation
Barnardos. (2019). Submission to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Education and Skills on the Current use of Reduced Timetables. https://knowledge.barnardos.ie/handle/20.500.13085/789
Abstract
Barnardos provides services before, during, and after school to support children in their social and emotional development which supports their education. We also provide an evidence-based reading programme in schools which targets literacy development and an evidence-based programme delivered in primary school classrooms which has shown significant effect in reducing levels of aggression among school children by raising social-emotional competence and increasing empathy. We know the transformative affect education can have on a child’s life, however for some children this potential is restricted due to them being placed on reduced timetables. In our work with children we recognise that reduced timetables can sometimes be used as a tool to support a child or young person manage their educational attendance. For example, in instances of teenage pregnancy, Barnardos has previously worked collaboratively with schools to negotiate a reduced school day in order to support the holistic needs of the young person. In other instances, a closely managed process of re-integrating within the school as part of the use of a reduced timetable has proved successful.
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