Minister for Education Norma Foley TD has invited expressions of interest from English-medium and Irish-medium primary schools and special schools to participate in a new language sampler module.
The proposed language sampler allows schools identify a modern foreign language of their choice, or Irish Sign Language (ISL). Schools will be supported by Post-Primary Languages Ireland (PPLI) in providing a six-week sampler module. The module will take place over a six-week period towards the end of the first term of the 2021/2022 school year.
What are the benefits of the scheme?
– Generates awareness among pupils of the range of languages used by their peers, in their schools and communities.
– Supports greater inclusion and appreciation of diversity
– Encourages uptake of foreign languages at post-primary level
– Provides opportunities for increased levels of collaboration among the school community with regard to the celebration of languages and cultures
– Informs future developments in the area of MFL and ISL in the Primary Curriculum Framework.
Who is it for?
This sampler module is targeted at pupils in 3rd to 6th class for up to 1 hour per week within the normal school timetable. It will be open to schools to participate on a voluntary basis. Schools will have the autonomy to determine the language they wish to introduce to the children and to secure a language tutor e.g. language teacher/language assistant from a post-primary school /a member of the school/wider community who is fluent in the target language.
How will it be delivered?
Delivery of the sampler module could be online or by way of a blended approach. All language tutors will work under the guidance of the class teacher and in line with Circular 0042/2018, around Garda vetting and other child protection requirements. If you need advice about sourcing language tutors/teachers contact PPLI at info@ppli.ie
PPLI will develop the content in consultation with the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA) and the NAtional Council for Special Education (NCSE). PPLI will also provide a short online training programme for the language tutors/teachers in the participating schools, should they wish to access it.
How will the module be funded?
Schools selected to participate in the six week sampler module will be provided with a grant from the Department of Education of €400 for one participating class, €600 for two participating classes, €800 for three participating classes and a maximum of €1,000 for four or more participating classes.
How and when will schools know if their application is successful?
The Department of Education and PPLI will establish a panel to evaluate applications based on the following criteria:
– a geographical spread of schools
– a range of school contexts
– diversity in the target languages
– access to a language tutor
– the school’s rationale for involvement in the project
Participation will be confirmed with schools by Friday 27th August 2021.
How does my school apply?
Interested schools should complete the Application Form at the link below no later than close of business on Wednesday 23 June 2021. For further information, please email info@ppli.ie
See Department of Education Press Release
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