Pupil-Teacher Ratio

Wednesday, 27 May 2026

Questions (86)

Cian O'Callaghan

Question:

86. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Education and Youth if her Department is committed to ensuring low student-teacher ratios for DEIS and DEIS Plus schools; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that a school (details supplied) is due to lose a mainstream class teacher as their pupil numbers on 30 September were 165 and not 166; if she will engage with the school to ensure that their student-teacher ratio remains as it is now; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40383/26]

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Written answers

Minister for Education and Youth

The key factor for determining the level of staffing resources provided at individual school level is the staffing schedule for the relevant school year and pupil enrolments on the previous 30 September. The staffing schedule operates in a clear and transparent manner and treats all similar types of schools equally.

The staffing arrangements for the 2026/27 school year are set out in Circular 0025/2026. That circular contains information and application forms on the staffing appeals process, where schools may appeal their staffing allocation to the Primary Staffing Appeals Board. The appeal submitted by the school was unsuccessful. The Appeals Board operates independently of the Department and its decision is final.