IPPN

The Tánaiste and Minster for Education & Skills, Mary Coughlan TD launched ‘Supporting Each Other – a guide to best practice for the effective partnership between Principals and Parent Associations’ on Friday 9th July at Leinster House.  The publication was jointly developed by the Irish Primary Principals’ Network (IPPN) and National Parents Council – Primary (NPC–P).  The publication charts a collaborative framework for effective partnership between schools and parent associations. It is an historic publication, as it is the first-time that collaboration at this level (between parents and principals) has taken place in the Irish Education System.

The eight year primary school cycle for 50,000 pupils will come to an end today (Friday 25th June) as they will bid farewell to their primary schools for the last time.  Irish Primary Principals’ Network (IPPN) President, Pat Goff said ‘For many parents, the summer holiday provides a slower pace with fun family outings.  This summer, perhaps parents could use the natural amenities around them to increase their children’s awareness and expand and develop their learning.  It is well documented that it is beneficial for children to engage in some educational activity over the summer’.

Fifteen schools without a Principal due to lack of interest

One in four primary schools in the last two years did not have a permanent appointed Principal.  In the last 6 months, fifteen schools needed to advertise for a Principal at least twice, and many of these schools are still operating with only an Acting Principal.  Schools in Kerry, Clare and Galway have recently advertised Principalship vacancies for the third time according to figures released from EducationPosts.ie.