andMr. Coughlan asked the Minister for Education if he will define what he means by (a) first-level education, (b) second-level education, and (c) thirdlevel education; and if he will classify the educational institutions rated under each of the headings (a), (b) and (c).
Ceisteanna—Questions Oral Answers. - Classification of Educational Institutions.
64.
Mr. O'Malley, Mr. T. O'Donnell
The meaning which I attach to the three levels of education is in accordance with international definitions. Accordingly—
Education at the first level is that which is given at primary schools.
Education at the second level provides general or specialised instruction, or both, at secondary schools, vocational schools, or comprehensive schools.
Education at the third level requires, as a minimum condition of admission, the successful completion of education at the second level and is given at a university or other institution of higher education.
In this country the general classification would be: First-level — Primary (National) Schools; Second-level — Secondary, Vocational, Comprehensive Schools and Juniorates; Thirdlevel — Universities, Teacher Training Colleges, National College of Art, the Colleges of Technology.