No plans to abolish homework, says Minister Foley

Do you think homework should be scrapped in Ireland?

Minister for Education Norma Foley has said she has no plans to abolish homework in Ireland. The Minister commented on the issue after President Michael D. Higgins suggested recently that homework be scrapped so that children could pursue "other creative things". But Foley does not agree, stating that it is up to each individual school to set its own homework policy. "It would not be appropriate for a Government Minister to engage in the public debate with the office of the President," she told the Irish Mirror. Foley added that schools can make their own homework policies and that it is not up to the Government to scrap homework. "These policies are created in conjunction with senior management and staff, the boards of management, parents, and the pupils," she explained.

“Schools are in of themselves places where creative pursuits are cultivated, nurtured and encouraged. "That creativity may also be reflected in homework.”

While appearing on RTÉ news2day to mark its 20th anniversary, the President of Ireland was asked by students from St Kevin’s National School in Littleton, Tipperary his thoughts on homework. "I think myself, really that the time at home and the time in school is an educational experience," he responded. "It should get finished at the school." "People should be able to use their time for other creative things." In regard to homework, many parents feel it takes up too much of their children's time during the evening. However, others argue it helps kids make more progress in school and that it benefits their communication and reading skills. Related links:

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