Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 28 Mar 2000

Vol. 516 No. 6

Written Answers. - Reception Year Programme.

Derek McDowell

Ceist:

401 Mr. McDowell asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on whether the introduction of the reception year into schools has been of enormous benefit; the reason the reception year in a school (details supplied) in Dublin 3 has been terminated; and if he will have it reinstated immediately. [9005/00]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

The primary curriculum is designed as an eight year course. It is flexible and child centred and can be adapted to cater for the individual needs of pupils. Furthermore, there is no official programme for a reception class within the primary curriculum. As a general rule, primary pupils should progress from one standard to a higher standard at the end of each school year.

Where my Department becomes aware that a school is operating a reception year or middle infant class, the board of management is advised that the three year cycle should be discontinued and a two year infant cycle re-established. Accordingly, the board of management of the school referred to by the Deputy has been notified that they should terminate the three year infant cycle and in the circumstances the operation of the reception year cannot be allowed to continue.