What is DEIS?DEIS stands for Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools — Ireland’s main national programme to tackle educational disadvantage. It was first launched in 2005 by the Department of Education and Skills (now the Department of Education and Youth). The programme aims to ensure that children and young people from disadvantaged backgrounds get targeted support so they can achieve their full potential. gov.ie+1
Current DEIS Participation 
  • As of 2024–2025, approximately 1,196 schools across Ireland are involved in the DEIS programme.
  • These schools support around 260,000 students, which is about 1 in 4 children nationally.
  • DEIS schools receive additional resources and supports to help address educational disadvantage. gov.ie+1
What is a DEIS Action Plan?Every DEIS school develops a DEIS Action Plan, which:
  • Lists specific targets and actions to support students at risk of educational disadvantage.
  • Organises these actions under DEIS Themes that guide planning and improvement. oide.ie
The 8 DEIS Themes
  1. 1. RetentionEnsuring that students stay in school through to completion of their education, with supports to reduce early school leaving.
    2. AttendanceImproving student attendance by encouraging daily engagement, addressing barriers, and promoting positive attendance habits.
    3. LiteracyRaising students’ reading, writing, and communication skills across all subjects through targeted and whole-school strategies.
    4. NumeracyDeveloping students’ confidence and ability in mathematics and everyday problem-solving, supported through consistent whole-school practices.
    5. AttainmentImproving academic outcomes, including exam results and overall progress, ensuring all students achieve to their full potential.
    6. TransitionsSupporting students as they move between key stages of education—for example, into first year, into senior cycle, and into further or higher education.
    7. Partnership with ParentsBuilding strong relationships with parents and guardians, involving them actively in their child’s learning and the life of the school.
    8. Partnership with OthersWorking with external agencies and community organisations to provide additional supports and opportunities for students and families.


How DEIS Operates in Schools Like St. Vincent’sIn schools participating in DEIS (such as St. Vincent’s):
  • Each of the 8 DEIS themes is monitored by a dedicated committee.
  • Each committee has a designated chairperson responsible for that area.
  • The overall DEIS process is overseen by DEIS Coordinators, who ensure the plan is implemented, reviewed, and aligned with departmental expectations.

​What can I do?:
Parents can get involved in supporting our work in each theme with this helpful advice for supporting your child at home and in school:

DEIS Literacy: Access our online library