They could remain in school for three days a week.
Leaving Cert students could remain in school despite them shutting for the next few weeks.
Cabinet Ministers are currently meeting to discuss a range of new tougher Covid 19 restrictions.
These new measures will see the country return to much of the same restrictions as last March.
Schools are set to shut for January but in a development this lunchtime its understood Leaving Cert students could remain in school for three days a week - with the Education Minister recommending this option to Cabinet.
Elsewhere, the ECCE scheme and preschools will also close but creches will remain open for children of essential workers.
Construction will stop but will continue for essential projects.
Those in non-essential retail won’t be allowed to do click and collect with deliveries only being allowed.
Ministers will also discuss new proposals whereby people will only be allowed travel into Ireland if they’ve proof of a negative covid test.
An official announcement on the measures is due later today.
