Specialist Schools Programme
The objectives of the Specialist Schools programme are designed to be fully supportive of the direction of travel for the new post primary arrangements and contribute to improving choice for pupils and parents and raising standards for all young people.
Specialist status builds whole school improvement by learning and applying the lessons from those areas in which the school is already strong to other areas of the curriculum. Of equal importance are the links that specialism builds with other schools in the area, further disseminating good practice and increasing collaboration. Links with local businesses and the community are also fostered, bringing a range of benefits and giving pupils new access to expertise and learning experiences.
The Specialist Schools programme was launched in September 2006 and to date a total of 44 schools have been awarded Specialist Schools status.
Following the Minister of Education, Caitríona Ruane’s, announcement of the 4th Cohort of Specialist Schools on 22 April 2009 Press Release - Specialist Schools funding announced - PDF 49.8KB she stated that there would be no further designations under the current Specialist school programme until a review of the existing programme is carried out.
Re-assessing the strengths of the programme and examining areas for improvement will form the basis of the review. The views and experiences of all existing specialist schools and other schools will be taken on board whilst carrying out the review.
It is intended that a more inclusive model will be developed which will focus on –
- Raising standards;
- Tackling the barriers to learning;
- Sharing and learning from one another; and
- ensuring the voice of pupils is sought and listened to in schools.
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