Vol. 399 No. 8
126 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Education if she will outline the plans in her Department to revise the leaving certificate syllabuses to reflect the changes taking place in junior cycle as a result of the new junior certificte; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
The terms of reference of the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment require that it keep under review and make recommendations on matters relating to the second level curriculum at both junior and senior levels.
On the recommendations of the council new syllabuses are being introduced for the junior certificate on a phased basis. The first phase, implemented from September 1989, comprises nine new syllabuses. It is intended to introduce new syllabuses in a further range of Junior Certificates subjects in September 1991.
The main thrust of the council's work at senior cycle to date has been devoted to an analysis of the existing provision at senior cycle and the question of how that provision may be best developed in order to meet the diversity of student needs and also to accommodate changes which will be taking place in the junior cycle.
