As the first official language in Ireland, and for fundamental cultural and historical reasons which are inextricably linked to Irish identity, the study of the Irish language is a key aspect of the learning experiences that are considered appropriate for pupils in recognised schools in Ireland. For these reasons, Irish is a core subject in the curriculum determined by the Minister for recognised Irish schools.

The decision to exempt a pupil from the study of Irish has very significant implications for his/her future learning and potential employment opportunities. Pupils should therefore be given every reasonable opportunity to participate in the learning of Irish for as long as possible in keeping with the integrated approach to language learning in the Primary Language Curriculum and also acknowledging that pupils at a young age adapt and improve over time. Normally, it is in the interests of the child to continue to study Irish at least to fifth or sixth class level before any decision is made to grant an exemption, so that he/she will have maximum opportunity to participate in the learning of Irish.

Circular 0054/2022 aims to support schools in addressing a wide diversity of needs. It is informed by the benefits of bilingualism for all pupils, as well as the principles of inclusion that underpin the Primary Language Curriculum. The Primary Language Curriculum is for children of all abilities in all school contexts. It recognises and supports pupils’ engagement with Irish and English at different stages and rates along their language-learning journey. It supports the provision of a differentiated learning experience for pupils in an inclusive school environment. It builds on the language knowledge and experience that pupils bring to the school.

The Progression Continua in the Primary Language Curriculum provide a framework for teachers to identify the pupil’s stage of language development and to plan interventions that support the development of language skills and competences in Irish and in English in an integrated manner, emphasising the transferability of language skills across languages.

Circular 0054/2022 is also set in the context of the Special Education Teaching Allocation model that allows mainstream schools to provide additional teaching support for all pupils who require such support in their schools based on their identified learning needs in school, as opposed to being based primarily upon a diagnosis of a particular disability.

The policy of the Department of Education is to provide for the inclusive education of children with special educational needs in mainstream education, other than in circumstances where it would not be in the best interest of the child, or the effective education of children with whom they are to be educated.4 In line with the Department’s policy schools are expected and encouraged to provide all pupils, to the greatest extent possible and in a meaningful way, with opportunities to participate in Irish language and cultural activities at a level appropriate to their learning needs. 

Please see below the criteria for an exemption from the study of Irish under Circular 0054 / 2022 and further information on the application process.