Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 February 2024
88. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Education the minimum requirement of class periods that should be made available for the teaching of senior cycle physical education; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6169/24]
View answerThe senior cycle physical education (SCPE) framework provides a flexible planning tool for physical education for all students in senior cycle and is not assessed as part of the Leaving Certificate examination. Young people in this group bring a wide variety of skills, talents and levels of motivation to their learning in physical education. They are represented at all points of the physical activity continuum.The use of different curriculum models in conjunction with those physical activities selected by a class group and their teacher is at the heart of teaching and learning in SCPE. By using different curriculum models, learners can be encouraged not only to improve their performance in different physical activities but also to develop their understanding of the factors which impact on their personal performance and participation in physical activity.The successful implementation of the SCPE Framework in schools is essential in supporting students in senior cycle to continue their engagement with, and commitment to, physical activity as they progress towards their Leaving Certificate exams.SCPE is designed to be taught over the two or three years of senior cycle education. Schools are required to ensure that a double period (totalling 80 minutes), or its equivalent, per week is made available as the minimum requirement for teaching SCPE. Where possible, timetable arrangements should facilitate learning opportunities associated with physical education in practical settings beyond the school. Schools operating a one-hour timetable must ensure that the time allocation is provided.
The Senior Cycle Physical Education Framework (SCPE) is available at the following link: Senior Cycle Physical Education Framework (SCPE) | NCCA.
