A survey of science facilities was conducted during the winter of 1998-9 to determine the state of the existing science infrastructure within second level schools and to inform decisions concerning the optimum approach to targeting resources at schools that offer the physical science subjects.
It is planned to publish an executive summary of the main findings of the survey later in the summer. The survey revealed three key findings. First, it identified the inadequate levels of equipment within science laboratories. In particular, it was noted that the vast majority of the 628 responding schools do not use information technology facilities in the teaching of science subjects. Second, the survey identified the need for greater awareness concerning health and safety issues within science laboratories. Third, the survey demonstrated that there is a need to upgrade the services within the majority of science laboratories.
In response to the main findings of the survey, I have already sanctioned the payment of a grant of £2,500 to schools that offer the physical science subjects at leaving certificate level for the purpose of acquiring a multi-media PC with DVD drive, printer and related hardware and software. Additionally, I sanctioned the payment of a grant of £1.500 to all qualifying schools to be used for acquiring items of equipment for use in the laboratory. I am at present considering a range of additional measures aimed at enhancing the level of equipment within science laboratories.
Concerning health and safety issues within laboratories, a circular letter has issued to the managerial authorities of all schools reminding school authorities of their statutory obligation under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act, 1989, to have a safety statement in place and to ensure that there are adequate safety precautions and safety equipment in science laboratories.
Schools that currently have a capital project in architectural planning will have their science laboratories upgraded as an integral element of the capital project. For all other schools that offer science subjects, consideration is being given to the most appropriate mechanisms to fund an upgrade of services within laboratories in the context of the overall needs of the school.