Vol. 492 No. 7
37 Mr. Barrett asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of inservice training days provided to date in order to support the introduction of foreign languages in 250 primary schools; the audio materials and equipment provided to date in these schools; and the modifications, if any, in teaching hours of other core subjects suggested to schools in order to facilitate the introduction of foreign languages. [14965/98]
The pilot project on modern languages will commence in 270 selected primary schools in September next.
It is envisaged that six project leaders will be appointed in the near furure. The duties of the project leaders will include assisting and advising principals and teachers and the implementation of a training programme for teachers, and it is anticipated that in-career training will commence following their appointment.
Each participating school will be given a financial grant to enable it to purchase materials to assist in providing the language tuition. The project leaders will advise on the materials and equipment which should be purchased.
It is envisaged that one and half hours' per class per week will be devoted to the teaching of the modern language in each school. It will be a matter for each individual school authority to decide how best to incorporate this period into its existing timetable.
