Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 29 September 2004
402 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason for the delay in introducing physical education as an examination subject; when this will be put in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21650/04]
View answerPhysical education is part of the prescribed curriculum for primary schools. Second level schools should offer a physical education programme based on an approved syllabus with teaching hours registered on the school timetable. The focus of physical education in schools is on the young person's holistic development, stressing personal and social development, physical growth and motor development. Goal setting, within the curriculum, focuses on individual improvement and not on winning or being the best.
At second level, the phasing in of a revised syllabus at junior cycle level for physical education — non-examination — commenced in September 2003. The revised junior cycle physical education syllabus, with its practical focus, provides young people with an opportunity to explore a range of intelligences and represents a balance in what has long been acknowledged as an academically dominated curriculum. The school's physical education programme can help raise educational standards, promote healthy lifestyles, cultivate social responsibility and citizenship, nurture socialisation skills and ultimately help students realise their individual potential.
No timescale for implementation has been decided upon for introduction of physical education as an examination subject.
