Rory O'Hanlon
Question:187 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for Education the plans, if any, she has for the development of second level education in the State; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20963/96]
Written Answers - Second Level Education.
Educational objectives at second level promote the right of each student to full and equal access, participation and benefit from educational provision in accordance with her or his ability.
The principal policy directions in relation to second level education are set out in the White Paper on Education, Charting our Education Future. Implementation of the policy programme requires action across a number of fronts. These include curricular reform in the junior and senior cycle areas which is designed to cater for students with varying abilities and aptitudes; ensuring a continuum of provision for special educational needs and developing teaching methodology in the context of a comprehensive programme of in-career development.
One of the main objectives of educational policy is to encourage and facilitate students to continue in full-time education up to the end of senior cycle. As outlined in the White Paper on Education, the target is that the percentage of the 16-18 year old age group completing senior cycle will increase to at least 90 per cent by the year 2000. This objective will be achieved through providing an effective foundation of general education and a strengthened and expanded vocational orientation in a restructured senior cycle.