The Department of Education is expected to inform primary and secondary schools soon that a new inspection system is to be introduced in every school in the State.
Whole School Evaluation (WSE) has been piloted in 16 schools, but a circular from the Department, now being finalised, is expected to inform managements that it is being extended throughout the sector.
The system is opposed by many teachers, and the Association of Secondary Teachers in Ireland (ASTI) is to hold a special convention on February 26th to decide its position on the issue.
WSE involves Department inspectors visiting schools and examining "the totality of the school service provided to the community". This includes visiting classrooms, talking to pupils and inspecting their copybooks and work. It also involves assessing the general quality of the teaching in the school.
The inspector will also be entitled to inspect school buildings and examine how the schools select their pupils. After this the official will discuss his inspection with the school management, but not with individual teachers.
A report issued last year by the Department said that the system hinged on examining whole schools rather than individual teachers. The introduction of WSE on a widespread basis is not related to initiatives relating to school planning in the national pay deal.
At present there is minimal inspection of voluntary, community and comprehensive schools, although schools coming under the Vocational Act are inspected regularly.