The ETI Second Sure Start Evaluation 2019 builds on the previous evaluation of 2018. The key themes of the evaluation are: how effectively children and parents are supported to develop speech, language and communication skills, the quality of support for parents, the development of the home learning environment and partnership working between Sure Start projects and pre-school settings.

The Department of Education (DE) commissioned the ETI to carry out an evaluation of the Extended Schools Programme, with the core focus to identify indicators of effective clustering and supporting examples of good practice.The Extended Schools programme aims to contribute to reducing differentials and improving the quality of life for children and young people.  Extended Schools funding is consequently allocated to schools serving the most disadvantaged communities. Clustering of funded schools is a feature of the programme with its particular purpose to address issues affecting the communities served by the schools.The findings of this evaluation arise from the evidence gathered from nursery, primary, post-primary, special, integrated, and Irish medium sectors.

The purpose of inspection is to promote the highest possible standards of learning, teaching and achievement throughout the education, training and youth sectors.