Jimmy Deenihan
Question:154 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the designation of physical education as a leaving certificate subject; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22977/01]
Written Answers. - State Examinations.
In August 2001, the NCCA published three draft syllabi in physical education, a junior cycle syllabus, a senior cycle syllabus and a leaving certificate syllabus. These three documents underwent an extensive consultation process and the final drafts of all three syllabi are currently being revised by the NCCA committee prior to being presented to the NCCA council.
It is anticipated that the final syllabus document for leaving certificate physical education will be presented to my Department in the near future together with a proposed implementation plan detailing a time schedule and resource implications.
When the final documentation is available a detailed implementation programme will be put in place. It is envisaged that the new leaving cer tificate examination in physical education will be introduced to schools on a phased basis. This should avoid overburdening schools and teachers and allow for gradual adaptation to the changes that are envisaged.