The association of Secondary Teachers in Ireland and the National Parents Council (Post-Primary) have produced a useful booklet for parents whose children are starting second level, Introducing Your Second Level School, which is available free of charge.

The booklet is being distributed through schools to the parents of the 60,000 students leaving primary school and entering second-level schools this week. The booklet explains some of the basics of our education system and offers advice on helping children with the transition from primary to post-primary level.

It is designed as an introduction to the partnership approach to education and aims at encouraging parents to play a full and informed role in their children's education.

It includes information on homework, weight of school bags, school uniforms, the curriculum, transport, financial support, school discipline and bullying.

The ASTI can be reached at Winetavern Street, Dublin 8 (tel: (01) 671 9144).