Kildare parents urged to take part in largest ever survey on primary school ethos

Parents in County Kildare have been urged by a Senator to take part in the largest ever survey on primary school ethos.

The call comes from Fianna Fáil Senator Fiona O'Loughlin, who has called on Kildare parents to participate in a new national survey being carried out by the government.

The survey, the largest of its kind, invites parents and guardians of all children from birth to 12 years old to share their preferences on school ethos, including whether they would like a religious or multi-denominational setting.

It also asks for views on co-educational or single-sex schooling, as well as whether parents would prefer English or Irish as the main language of instruction.

Speaking about the initiative, Senator O’Loughlin, who herself has a background in teaching, said: "Our education system must reflect what our parents want for their children.

"Fianna Fáil believes that parents play the most important role in shaping the values and experiences that guide their children through education.

"Their views must be at the centre of any future changes to our school system."

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She continued: "Parents know what is best for their children; they should have a meaningful say in the ethos of their schools, the environment in which their children learn and the language in which they are taught.

"This survey provides a valuable opportunity for parents to have their voices heard."

Senator O'Loughlin also said that this is the first time that parents, guardians, teachers and school board members "across every primary school community in Ireland will be able to clearly express what type of school they wish to see in their area".

SEPARATE QUESTIONNAIRE

In addition, Senator O'Loughlin said that a separate questionnaire will also gather the views of teachers and members of boards of management.

She asserted that the results "will help shape how education is delivered at primary level and guide schools in meeting the needs and expectations of their local communities".

Concluding her statement, Senator O'Loughlin said: "This is an important opportunity for parents to influence the future of our education system and ensure it reflects the values and priorities of families across Ireland."

The survey can be completed online at www.gov.ie/primaryschoolsurvey.

Fianna Fáil Senator Fiona O'Loughlin. File photograph

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