Written Answers. - Physical Education Facilities.
David Stanton
Question:
341
Mr. Stanton
asked the
Minister for Education and Science
his views on the importance of physical education in schools; the proposals, if any, he has to promote physical fitness among school children of all ages; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[12603/99]
One of the major objectives of physical education, at both primary and post-primary level, is the enhancement of physical well being through involvement in healthy physical activity. Through participation in a structured physical education programme, students are provided with the knowledge and skills by which they are enabled to make informed decisions concerning issues of health and personal well being. In addition to acquiring these skills and knowledge students are encouraged to develop a positive disposition towards participation in healthful activity.
In primary schools, physical education has long been regarded as being capable of making an important contribution to the proper development of children. The 1971 primary school curriculum recognises the importance of this aspect of human development and sets down a comprehensive programme in physical education comprising gymnastics, games, athletics, swimming, health education and other activities. It is recommended that all primary schools devote one hour per week to the subject. In the revised primary school curriculum, which is due to be launched in the schools during the next school year, physical education will be accorded an equally high status. The revised programme will comprise six strands, namely, athletics, games, dance, gymnastics, outdoor and adventure activities and aquatics. It is proposed to implement the revised curriculum in the schools on a phased basis over a number of years. Schools will be free to introduce the revised subject areas in whatever order they wish, taking account of the interests and expertise of their teachers. The phased implementation of the revised curriculum will be supported by an ongoing programme of in-career development for teachers in all curricular areas, including physical education.
At post-primary level physical education continues to play a central role in the education of the child. At junior cycle level a new physical education syllabus, together with support materials, is being developed. As part of this process the Department of Education and Science, in conjunction with the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, is running a major pilot project in 60 schools. This project will seek to ensure that the quality of physical education provision is improved by directing participating teachers to examine and evaluate their teaching methods and their learning outcomes for students. The findings of this project will be disseminated to teachers on a nationwide basis next year.
The NCCA is also currently preparing a leaving certificate syllabus in physical education. It is proposed that students who commence their leaving certificate cycle in 2001 will have the opportunity of selecting physical education as one of their subjects for examination. This heralds a major innovation in Irish education.
