Study links lack of books and extracurriculars to poorer school attitudes among Irish children
A new ESRI report finds that children in persistent poverty in Ireland are twice as likely to dislike school, largely due to limited access to books and cultural activities.
Research by the Economic and Social Research Institute, supported by the Department of Children, Disability and Equality, shows that persistent childhood poverty affects more than half of Irish youngsters before they turn thirteen, and each period in poverty lowers reading proficiency. Children who grow up poor are over twice as likely to report never liking school and have lower expectations of attaining a degree. The report points to insufficient access to books, early reading time, and extracurricular cultural or sports activities as key drivers of the achievement gap.
As children age, school influences become stronger, and positive teacher relationships and a healthy school climate can improve engagement and aspirations. The findings underscore the need for subsidies that guarantee equal access to cultural, sports, and reading opportunities for all children.
Why it matters
Understanding how poverty limits learning resources helps shape policies to improve educational equity for Irish children.
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