Scheme of Assistance to Schools in Designated Areas of Disadvantage (Primary Level)

This scheme was introduced in 1984 in disadvantage areas  and schools seeking disadvantaged status were assessed and prioritised as to need on the basis of socio-economic and educational indicators such as unemployment levels, housing, medical card holders and information on basic literacy and numeracy. In addition, in assessing the relative levels of disadvantage among applicant schools, account was taken of pupil teacher ratios.

Primary Level

310 primary schools are included in the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme serving 64,700 pupils in disadvantaged areas with 293 additional ex-quota teaching posts in 250 of these schools. Schools are allowed certain latitude in their use of these extra posts so as to enable them to be applied to maximum advantage.

Up until 1994, schools selected for disadvantaged status were allocated an ex-quota concessionary teaching post and also qualified for special supplementary capitation funding. The capitation supplement per pupil is Euro38.09 broken down as follows:

• Euro20.31 supplementary capitation for general running costs
• Euro11.43 for classroom materials and equipment
• Euro6.35 for home/school community liaison activities

Additional Supports

Schools in the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme also received the following supports:-

• Refund of Television Licence Fee
• 95% Building Grant for building projects

Post- Primary Level

At Post Primary level, this Scheme benefits 203 schools serving approx 93,000 pupils by providing over quota teaching posts, additional funding to launch book rental schemes, additional capitation grants of €38 per pupil and a home/school liaison grant to develop links with parents.

Further information can be obtained from:-

Social Inclusion Unit
Department of Education and Science,
Cornamaddy,
Athlone,
Co. Westmeath.