Parental Involvement in Primary Education in Ireland

The last two decades have seen an intense period of discussion and negotiation at national level on the future direction of Irish education. One of the key aims of this dialogue was to "maximise parent involvement and choice" in their children's education. Not only were parents to be kept informed of their own children's learning, but they were to be involved in decision-making at all levels within the school and the education system.

Alongside these changes in the education system, society's expectations of parents in relation to their children's education have increased enormously. Parents today are expected to proactively lead and manage their children's education, both at home and at school, and are considered responsible for all aspects of their children's development.

This comprehensive study gives the parents' perspective of how they are involved in their children's education, both at home and in school. It also explores, from a parent's point of view, how the national policy of partnership between parents, the school and the State is working. It will be of great interest to parents, teachers and policy-makers.

About the Author

Margaret Josephine Bleach has been Director of the Early Learning Initiative at the National College of Ireland since 2008. Previously she worked as a primary school teacher and Home School Community Liaison Co-ordinator in Darndale, north Dublin.