Students develop fluency and literacy in both Gaeilge and English and it is easier for them to learn additional languages
Students have greater cognitive flexibility and divergent thinking
Bilingualism gives students a greater sense of identity and increases their self-esteem
Students receive bonus marks in the Leaving Certificate
Bilingual education contributes to social, emotional and interpersonal growth in students
The same supports are made available to children with special educational needs in Irish-medium schools and they enjoy the same benefits of bilingual education
19.8% of all Irish-medium and Gaeltacht post-primary schools have DEIS status. Schools participating in DEIS receive extra resources and supports. These include:
More staff and smaller class sizes
More funding and School Meals Programme
Access to additional Literacy and Numeracy
Programmes
Additional student supports including a full time Guidance Counsellor
Additional parental supports through the Home School Community Liaison Scheme
