One of the key aims of Junior Cycle Reform was to move from a large number of subjects with heavy curricula examined in a traditional memory based way. After a very detailed consultation process the NCCA recommended a new approach:
- limited compulsory subjects around basic literacy and numeracy
- 24 statements of learning
It is important to say that the 24 statements of learning include important elements which cultivate a historical perspective.
The new Junior Cycle Programme has also greatly enlivened subjects with a new emphasis on projects and self-directed learning.
Schools have been given greater flexibility and autonomy in subject choice. This increased flexibility and autonomy for schools reflects practice in other high-performing education systems such as New Zealand, Finland and Estonia.
The 2011 Literacy and Numeracy strategy, which was a response to negative international survey findings for Ireland in relation to Literacy and Numeracy, placed a priority focus on literacy and numeracy skills, delivered primarily in subject terms via English, Irish and Maths.