Minister opposes newspaper school league tables
The Minister for Education, Mary Hanafin, said today she was fundamentally opposed to the publication of school league tables by newspapers.
Two separate lists published in the past week have come up with different results.
Ms Hanafin said that from January she would publish inspectors’ reports and school evaluations, which would give a more accurate picture.
But she said the method used by newspapers to put together lists was crude.
“I'm fundamentally opposed to league tables which are based not only the results of the school but are so narrow as to only include those who are going on to university and to third level .
“Schools and education are about much more than that.
“Our schools also offer extra-curricular activities. They help the weaker students. They include special needs. They help children to develop all of their talents and that is not recognised on any league tables.”
