Every school can and should be a good school - Ruane

All schools can be good schools, was the message Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, delivered at the launch of her new policy in Castlewellan.

Every School a Good School: School Improvement Policy has identified core performance indicators that will inform inspection and how schools will be supported and, if necessary, challenged through the Education and Skills Authority.

Speaking at the launch of the policy at St Malachy’s High School, the Minister said: “I believe that every child has the right to attend a good school. Through implementation of this policy I want to ensure that all schools are working to improve. We will promote high standards across the school system; we will support schools and teachers in their pursuit of excellence; we will help teachers overcome the barriers to learning encountered by children in the classrooms.

“To put it simply, I believe that schools themselves, through engagement in a self-evaluation process, are best placed to identify areas for improvement and to implement changes that can bring about better outcomes for their pupils.”

Ms Ruane went onto say: “I want every young person to have access to high-quality education, in schools which have excellent leaders and teachers with high aspirations for their pupils whilst maintaining strong links with parents and the community.

“This policy is part of that vision. Society is changing, the world is changing and the education of our youngest citizens must adapt to meet these changes and should remain our top priority.”

Notes to Editors:

1. The consultation for Every School a Good School: A policy for School Improvement was launched at Ashfield Girls School on 21 January 2008.

Copies of the policy can be found on the Department’s website.

2. Media queries, contact the Department of Education Press Office on 028 9127 9701. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via page number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.