The assessment aims to provide an independent expert analysis of the existing resource allocation model for the DEIS program. It aims to establish a policy approach that equitably distributes supplementary resources to all students at risk of educational disadvantage.
Ireland Education Minister Norma Foley has invited the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development to review the country’s Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools program.
The assessment aims to provide an independent expert analysis of the existing resource allocation model for the DEIS program. It aims to establish a policy approach that equitably distributes supplementary resources to all students at risk of educational disadvantage, across both DEIS and non-DEIS schools.
Jointly funded by the Department of Education and the European Commission through the Learning Lab initiative, the review will leverage the OECD’s Strength Through Diversity: Education for Inclusive Societies Project.
The minister emphasized that no child should be left behind due to their circumstances. The review will therefore offer an impartial perspective on the current allocation of DEIS resources, informing future policy development.
Foley highlighted the Department of Education’s commitment to a quality, inclusive school system that supports all students, with the DEIS program as a crucial policy initiative to address educational disadvantage.
The minister added that the review will take into account best practices and existing evidence, allowing the Department to reflect on successful strategies and identify areas of improvement. She noted the government’s recent efforts including the expansion of the DEIS program, a reduction in class sizes, and the introduction of free school books for primary students.
The review, estimated to be completed by Q2 2024, will also consider individual resources and allocation approaches, aiming to enhance their efficacy. Its findings will guide policy measures towards supporting schools adequately, especially those with students at risk of educational disadvantage.
The OECD will draw on international examples and engage with various stakeholders for the review. The project, which will cost €250,000 (around US$273,882), is co-funded by the European Commission under the Learning Lab on Investing in Quality Education and Training initiative.
The OECD Strength Through Diversity: Education for Inclusive Societies Project aims to address diversity within education systems and promote equitable and inclusive education. Notable previous reviews include a Review of Inclusive Education in Portugal and a review of the Right to Learn Program in Finland.
Initiated in November 2022, the Learning Lab, supported by then EU Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth, Mariya Gabriel, aims to foster evidence-informed policy design and implementation in education and training across the EU.
