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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 12 Jun 2001

Vol. 537 No. 5

Written Answers. - State Examinations.

Derek McDowell

Question:

88 Mr. McDowell asked the Minister for Education and Science the proposals he has to reform the leaving certificate examination following the recent report of the NCCA; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17125/01]

My Department has been engaged with the NCCA in an ongoing reform of the leaving certificate examination since the early 1990s. Syllabuses for the modern languages, Gaeilge, accounting, business, and music have been revised. The implementation of the revised syllabuses has, in each case, been supported by extensive in-service provision for teachers. A revised syllabus for leaving certificate English was examined for the first time this year. Revised syllabuses for physics and for chemistry will be examined for the first time in 2002 and revised syllabuses for home economics and biology will be implemented over the next few years. Revision of other syllabuses is nearing completion and they will be introduced on a phased basis.

As well as revisions to the established leaving certificate, new and innovative leaving certificate options are now provided for students. The leaving certificate vocational programme caters for students who want a leaving certificate qualification that puts particular emphasis on the needs of the workplace. The leaving certificate applied is provided for students for whom the established leaving certificate is inappropriate. Revised leaving certificate applied syllabuses were implemented in the current school year.

The NCCA has in place a senior cycle committee with representatives from my Department, teacher unions, school management organisations, third level education and of the world of work. The NCCA report referred to by the Deputy was a discussion document recently produced by this senior cycle committee as part of its work. When the NCCA deliberations are completed, comprehensive advice regarding the future shape of senior cycle, including leaving certificate options, will be presented for my consideration before I make a final decision on the matter.

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