Education in Ireland: A Comprehensive Guide for Families

14/02/2025

The Irish Education System: Step by Step

Primary Education (Primary School)

Age Range and Structure:
- Junior Infants (age 4-5)
- Senior Infants (age 5-6)
- First through Sixth Class (ages 6-12)
- School year: September to June
- Typical hours: 9:00am - 2:40pm
Curriculum Coverage:
- Core Subjects:
  - English
  - Irish (Gaeilge)
  - Mathematics
  - History
  - Geography
  - Science
  - Physical Education
  - Arts Education
  - Social Personal & Health Education
Enrollment Process:
- Start early (1-2 years before)
- Required documents:
  - Birth certificate
  - Proof of address
  - PPS number
  - Vaccination records
  - Previous school records (if applicable)

Secondary Education (Secondary School)

Structure:
- Junior Cycle (3 years)
  - Ages 12-15
  - Junior Certificate examination
  - Core and optional subjects
- Senior Cycle (2-3 years)
  - Optional Transition Year
  - Two-year Leaving Certificate program
  - Career guidance and planning
Types of Schools:
- Secondary Schools
- Vocational Schools
- Community Schools
- Comprehensive Schools
- Fee-paying Private Schools

School Types and Options

Public Schools:
- Free education
- State funded
- Local catchment areas
- Religious and non-religious options
Private Schools:
- Annual fees vary
- Additional facilities
- Smaller class sizes
- International curricula options
DEIS Schools:
- Additional supports
- Enhanced funding
- Extra programs
- Reduced costs

Additional Educational Support

Special Education Needs:
- Assessment process
- Resource teaching
- Special needs assistants
- Individual education plans
Language Support:
- English as Additional Language (EAL)
- In-school support
- After-school programs
- Summer courses

Practical School Information

School Costs:
- Books and materials
- Uniforms
- Voluntary contributions
- Extra-curricular activities
Transportation:
- School bus schemes
- Public transport options
- Walking/cycling routes
- Car-pooling arrangements

[Standard Contact Information:]

📞 Contact Information:

Main Office: +353 879160804
24/7 Emergency: +353 896111128

💻 Online:

Email: info.admin@emeraldwelcomecentre.ie
Website: www.emeraldwelcomecentre.ie

⏰ Operating Hours:

Regular Support:
- Monday to Friday: 09:00am - 18:00pm
- Saturday: 10:00am - 14:00pm
- Sunday: Closed
Emergency Line: Available 24/7

[Specialized Education Support Section:]

For Education Support: We can help you with:

School enrollment processes
Document translation for education
Understanding the Irish education system
Finding suitable schools in your area
Special education needs guidance
Language support resources
School transport arrangements

Additional Education Resources:

Homework support groups
After-school activities
Educational assessment guidance
School uniform exchanges
Parent-teacher meeting support
Education grant applications
School holiday programs