Clarification on outstanding issues
26/08/2020
The INTO has been seeking clarification on a number of outstanding issues which we have raised with the Department of Education since the Roadmap For The Full Reopening of Primary and Special Schools was published a month ago. The department has clarified some matters.
INTO slams Medmark treatment of medically vulnerable members and calls for an urgent review of face coverings for pupils
25/08/2020
INTO has noted that the World Health Organisation is now recommending that children aged six and older wear face masks and, in that context, calls on government to urgently review the HPSC guidance in relation to children wearing face coverings in certain circumstances.
INTO Queryline requests email queries where possible
20/08/2020
The INTO Queryline welcomes queries from members but is currently experiencing an unprecedented level of demand. We are anxious to assist members at this exceptional time and we have put additional resources, including staffing, in place to support this service...
INTO launches TeacherConnect substitute service
18/08/2020
TeacherConnect is a brand-new member service which offers an enhanced service to members available for substitute work and to schools seeking to fill a substitute position.
Reopening schools – updated FAQs for members
17/08/2020
INTO has reviewed all guidance issued by the Department of Education over the summer with respect to the reopening of our schools. We are now pleased to advise members that we have published a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions for members on our COVID-19 Support Hub.
High volume of queries
14/08/2020
The INTO query system has experienced a very high volume of queries this week, and as such there are delays in responding to members. We appreciate that members have multiple queries about returning to school and we are working to assist members in this regard.
Enhanced substitution cover secured to support school reopening
13/08/2020
INTO has emphasised for many months that the sustainability of plans for the safe reopening of primary and special schools will depend on classes not being split when teachers are absent. INTO welcomes confirmation that approved teacher absences which were not covered by substitute teachers immediately before the pandemic will be covered in the next school year.
Departmental helpline on reopening schools established
11/08/2020
INTO would like to advise members that the Department of Education has established a helpline to assist schools with re-opening. The helpline can be contacted on 057-9324461...
Face coverings, procurement mechanism, leave of absence, COVID-19 capitation grant, supply panels and more
07/08/2020
At this morning’s stakeholder forum with the Department of Education, the INTO raised several matters in respect of schools’ reopening and was briefed on a number of developments to support the orderly and safe reopening of our primary schools. Weekly stakeholder engagement will continue throughout August...