Jimmy Deenihan
Question:246 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the designation of physical education as a leaving certifi cate subject; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12998/02]
Written Answers. - School Curriculum.
My Department expects to receive shortly three proposed syllabi for physical education at post-primary level from the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment. These will comprise junior cycle and senior cycle syllabi that offer a range of physical education experiences to all students, and an optional leaving certificate syllabus. The syllabus for leaving certificate is designed to provide opportunities for students to study physical education as an examination subject for the first time.
The syllabi will be carefully considered by my Department and it is envisaged that the leaving certificate syllabus will be introduced to schools on a phased basis to avoid overburdening schools and teachers and to allow for gradual adaptation to the major changes that are envisaged.
Consideration will also be given to the need for a comprehensive implementation strategy for all three syllabi, to identify and address human resource issues and capital resource implications.