Austin Currie
Ceist:407 Mr. Currie asked the Minister for Education and Science the resources which are available for the education of gifted children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5392/01]
Vol. 531 No. 3
407 Mr. Currie asked the Minister for Education and Science the resources which are available for the education of gifted children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5392/01]
Under the terms of the Education Act it is a function of the board of management of each school to publish the policy of the school relating to participation by students with special educational needs, including students who are exceptionally able. The measures the school take in this regard are required to be stated in the school plan. It is the duty of the board of management to ensure that appropriate education services are made available to such students.
In recent years new syllabi and curricula have been devised for second-level schools. These have been designed in such a way that the differing needs of a wide range of pupil ability can be catered for by their teachers. The revised primary curriculum, which has been supplied to every primary teacher, recognises the importance of developing the full potential of the child and caters for pupil diversity, including meeting the needs of exceptionally able pupils.
While content is outlined in the curricula at both levels, process is also heavily emphasised. Enabling children to learn how to learn is stressed and facilitated. The development of language skills, investigatory and problem-solving skills, higher-order thinking skills and working individually and as a member of a group are all encouraged at both levels. While the use of information and communication technologies and the use of class and school libraries is of benefit in project work with all pupils, they have a special importance for pupils who are exceptionally able.