Vol. 560 No. 1
341 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science if his Department has received the three proposed syllabi for physical education at post-primary level from the NCCA; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1000/03]
Three proposed syllabi in physical education for junior cycle, senior cycle and leaving certificate, have been received in my office from the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, NCCA, and are currently being evaluated by my officials. The NCCA, in conjunction with the Department of Education and Science, undertook an extensive consultation process prior to the submission of the syllabus documents to my Department. Much of the feedback obtained during this process has been incorporated in the final documents.
The content of leaving certificate physical education marks a significant departure from existing practice in that it explores the theoretical foundations underpinning physical education and physical activity. The syllabi advocate that this integration of theory and practice should be a primary concern, both in teaching and in assessment, and that this should be reinforced through the structure and methodology of the examination procedures. In addition, the non-examination syllabi, particularly at senior cycle level, seek to encourage and emphasise the importance of greater participation in physical activity.
My Department is currently examining the extent to which in-career development for teachers may be needed to support the implementation of these syllabi and how this support might be delivered having regard to the need for in-career development in relation to other areas of second level curriculum. When these and other details relating to the assessment of leaving certificate physical education have been agreed by my Department, I will be in a position to make a decision on a date for implementation for all three syllabi.
