asked the Minister for Education the number of second level schools in each of the following categories which have been sanctioned to offer a six-year cycle to pupils: (i) voluntary-secondary schools (ii) community-comprehensive schools (iii) community colleges and vocational schools and (iv) fee charging schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Post-Primary Schools with Six-Year Cycle.
81.
The authorities of post-primary schools were advised in October 1985 that the junior cycle was required to be of three years duration and the leaving certificate course to be of two years duration in all schools. However, those schools which were providing a four-year junior cycle in the 1985-86 school year could continue to provide a six-year programme on the following basis:
—a junior cycle of three years duration,
—a transition year and
—a two-year leaving certificate course.
In addition a total of over 400 post-primary schools offer vocational preparation and training courses at post intermediate and-or post leaving certificate level.
The majority of the above cases would be part of a six-year cycle.
The following is a breakdown of the various categories of schools: Fee charging secondary schools, 47; other secondary schools, 242; Community colleges-vocational schools, 267; Community and comprehensive schools, 62.