170. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Education the method by which student teacher ratios are calculated at primary school level; if nonmainstream class teachers (details supplied) are removed from the calculation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37477/24]

The Pupil Teacher Ratio calculation includes both classroom teachers, and other teachers that support the overall education of pupils, that is, special education teachers, English as an Additional Language (EAL) support teachers, administrative principals, and Home School Community Liaison (HCSL) teachers, as well as any other full-time teaching staff.