Compulsory education
The Irish Constitution of 19374 , made education compulsory for children from age 6 to 15. The Education (Welfare) Act 200071 raised the minimum school leaving age from 15 to 16, or the completion of three years of post-primary education, whichever is the later. This was implemented in the 2002/03 academic year.72
Whilst compulsory education does not begin until children are 6 years old, almost half of 4-year-olds (49 per cent) and all 5-year-olds are enrolled in infant classes in primary schools. The State also provides funding for other early childhood education provision, including targeted interventions such as Early Start for children in areas of socio-economic disadvantage.9
Home Education
The Irish Constitution (1937)4 also permits parents to provide education for school-age children in their own homes. It is, however, very unusual for parents to do so. The Education (Welfare) Act 200071 established the National Education Welfare Board (NEWB), which is responsible for ensuring that that every child in the State attends a recognised school or otherwise receives an appropriate education. The Board maintains a register of children receiving education outside the recognised school structure and will assess the adequacy of such education on an ongoing basis. Parents wishing to educate their children at home must register with and be approved by the Board. The NEWB Guidelines for approval are available online.
The Home Education Network (HEN) is a support and lobby group for home educators in Ireland. Its aims are: ยท
HEN has replaced the parent network Sa Bhaile ('at home' in Irish).