Six primary schools at risk of closure in County Roscommon

Six primary schools in County Roscommon with fewer than 16 pupils are at risk of closure, according to enrolment figures taken in the last academic year. There were originally eight on the list, but two have since closed.

The INTO president Brendan Horan is now appealing to parents, guardians and grandparents in County Roscommon to use their voice to protect rural schools across the county.

The analysis of the figures undertaken by the INTO is based on figures from the Department of Education and Youth (DEY).

The INTO is now asking concerned families to raise the matter with local TDs and public representatives.

Mr Horan stressed that the current system of teacher allocations must be revised, as often the current system can punish rural schools.

Hugh Lynn, secretary of the Elphin-Strokestown INTO branch and INTO media coordinator for County Roscommon, highlighted that Ireland’s current pupil to teacher ratio is one classroom teacher for every 23 pupils.

The current Programme for Government aims to bring the figure down to 19 pupils, and Mr Lynn explained the necessity in achieving this figure, along with adding additional teaching jobs.

“Having smaller class sizes would enable teachers to meet the broad spectrum of needs that children are presenting with in our schools. Teachers can use modern teaching methods more effectively and spend more time with each child with smaller class sizes. This is particularly important for children with additional needs and those from disadvantaged communities.

“Retaining these vital teaching posts ensures local communities do not lose their small schools, while directly helping the country bridge the gap toward achieving its targeted, European-standard pupil-teacher ratios,” Mr Lynn concluded.