My Department does not review, approve or endorse the content of textbooks published by private companies. Any concerns regarding material published in textbooks should be raised with the publisher themselves.
Access to Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) is an important right for students. This is reflected in the Programme for Government, which states that this Government will develop inclusive and age appropriate curricula for RSE and Social, Personal and Health Education (SPHE) across primary and post-primary schools. SPHE is a mandatory curriculum subject in all primary schools and in post-primary Junior Cycle. RSE is required at all levels in schools, from primary through to Senior Cycle.
The review and development of curricular specifications is managed through a comprehensive process in which the NCCA advises the Minister for Education on curriculum and assessment for early childhood education, primary and post-primary schools. This advice is developed through research, deliberation, extensive consultation and networks and in line with prevailing government policy on curriculum.A draft revised Junior Cycle specification was published for consultation by the NCCA in July 2022, with the consultation process running to October 2022. This specification was finalised based on feedback from this consultation and was published in May 2023. It will be rolled out in schools from September 2023.
The updated Junior Cycle specification provides clear direction on the knowledge, skills, and dispositions that all students should gain during the 3 years of junior cycle SPHE. It places a strong focus on the development of important life skills that young people need growing up in a fast changing and complex world. The SPHE specification is grounded in values of respect, equality, inclusivity, responsibility, dignity, compassion and empathy.
