NI Schools Stressed, Says Audit

According to recent figures a large number of secondary and primary schools in Northern Ireland are facing difficulties.

Figures released by the Department of Education have revealed that 84% of secondary schools and 50% of primary schools are facing challenges in three key areas.

John O’Dowd, Minister for Education, commissioned the audit of primary and post-primary schools to ascertain the levels of stress schools were experiencing in three areas – quality of education provision, stable enrolments and financial viability

In the primary sector 390 schools out of a total of 839 are evidencing stress in at least one category – that is 46.5% of all primary schools. Similarly, in the post-primary sector 124 out of a total of 148 secondary schools - that is 83.8% of schools are evidencing some degree of stress. The grammar sector is not immune to stress, with 24 out of 68 (35%) evidencing stress in one or more areas.

Mr O’Dowd said: "The overall picture is a serious one and it confirms the need to move quickly on the area plans and to put in place the network of viable and sustainable schools that will deliver high quality education for all pupils. There are a number of schools, both primary and post primary, that are evidencing stress in one or more area."