Vol. 409 No. 8
66 Mr. Garland asked the Minister for Education her views on whether the present school system with its almost total emphasis on successful examination results teaches children that the key value in life is competition and not co-operation; and if she will undertake to consider this aspect of education in any forthcoming education Bill.
The aims of the junior certificate include, among others the contribution to the moral and spiritual development of the young person; the development of a tolerance and respect for the values and beliefs of others; the preparation of the young person for the responsibilities of citizenship. The aims and purpose of the leaving certificate course are to prepare pupils for immediate entry into open society as well as preparing students for further education.
In the circumstances, while I accept that admittance to third level education is very competitive, I cannot accept that the education system teaches children that the key value in life is competition and not co-operation.
I propose that the Green Paper on education will incorporate a comprehensive statement on the aims and objectives of education.
