Would this impact your decision on where your child goes?
Girls who attend a single-sex secondary school enjoy school less than those who attend a mixed school. Furthermore, the girls in the single-sex schools feel more pressure around exam time and stressful periods.
These results have come from a survey which was conducted by Comhairle na nÓg in conjunction with the Department of Children and Youth Affairs.
Over 3,200 students ranging in ages were surveyed. The survey was based on the student’s opinions on school life from teaching methods, to support and stress. The questions were based on the following areas:
- How young people experience teaching and learning in school
- Feelings about school
- Views on services and facilities in school
The survey also found that Maths, English and Irish as subjects faced the most criticism for the way they are taught and just 30 percent of the students surveyed said that their teachers made learning interesting.
Just under half of those surveyed said that they didn’t get enough feedback from teachers on their work. Overall the younger students felt happier in school than the older classes.
Interestingly, 75 percent of them felt that they learned best when they participated in active learning such as quizzes, learning games and role play etc.
Commenting on the results, Minister Katherine Zappone said:
“Young people must have their say in policies, decisions and practices which impact on their daily lives. School is a huge part of their day and their voices must be heard and acted upon.
This report proves that there are changes which need to happen in the Education system. It is really important for young people, teachers and government parties to study and respond to this extensive piece of research as it explains what young people need, and want to change, to make their journey through education better.’’
