Majority of Westmeath parents support school ethos

Data from the Department of Education shows that in Westmeath almost 65% of parents in denominational schools wish to retain that ethos.

More than 200,000 households submitted validated responses, and there was strong participation from school staff and boards of management.

Other data in the survey shows that approximately 74% of parents in the single-sex primary schools of the county favour a move to co-education, and 88% of parents in English-medium schools support maintaining it as the primary language of instruction.

Despite the overwhelming support for retaining the current structure Educate Together said the figures show that the demand for multi-denominational/ equality-based education in Westmeath is not being met.

“Of the 73 primary schools in the county, only two have a multi-denominational ethos. Parents in many parts of Westmeath have no choice other than to send their children to a denominational primary school,” they said.

The government’s current framework and action plan for delivery of increased choice for parents on education provision at primary level outlines a three-step process for change: the department identify schools where there is strong demand for change through the primary school survey, a facilitator supports a process of dialogue in identified schools, and the schools select a new patron and change patronage from September 2027.

The department say that it is important to note that it is the preferences within each individual school community that will determine future direction: “Demand for change, or continuity, will vary from school to school. A good response rate at individual school level will also be relevant in assessing the parental preferences.”

Minister for Education and Youth Hildegarde Naughton stated: “School communities have spoken, and their message is clear that parents want a central role in shaping the future of their children’s education.”

The level of engagement shows a deep commitment from families, staff and boards of management to the direction of their local schools, the minister added.