Leitrim families to save this September with expanded free school book programme

The free school book programme has been expanded to cover 212,000 junior cycle students across approximately 670 schools across Ireland including in Leitrim and Sligo.

The free school book program is a Government initiative designed to reduce expenses for parents and guardians, recognising that school years can be costly.

775,000 students in primary, secondary, and special education schools will have access to fully funded school books, notebooks, and, when possible, other classroom resources.

The free school books scheme for primary level education was implemented in September of 2023, with schools providing free books on loan. Starting in September 2024, school books and essential classroom resources for students in their first three years of secondary education will be provided free of charge.

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Post-primary schools in the Free Education Scheme can also help families of Senior Cycle students with the cost of school books. Under the scheme, applicable schools can either set up a rental process within the school or help individual students buy books.

“The provision of free school books will alleviate economic burdens for parents of students in junior cycle, primary, and special education, Deputy Frank Feighan, Sligo-Leitrim TD has said.

“This initiative not only saves Sligo and Leitrim families money but also time they would have spent gathering school supplies, as schools are now fully equipped to distribute all essential materials before the school year starts.

“This initiative goes beyond just economic relief; it ensures that every student in the North West, no matter their background, has access to necessary educational resources. 

“This kind of equality in the classroom enhances the learning experience for everyone.

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“In light of these benefits, it is now crucial for the Minister for Education to consider extending free schoolbook services to Senior Cycle students,” Deputy Feighan said.