Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 June 2022
953. Deputy Jennifer Carroll MacNeill asked the Minister for Education when in 2023 that the primary curriculum framework for relationship sexuality education and social, personal and health education will be published; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29192/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA) is in the process of redeveloping the Primary School Curriculum. A key document, the Primary Curriculum Framework which sets the foundation upon which curriculum specifications will be developed, will be furnished to my office in late 2022. Following my approval, the Framework will be published.
Work on the specifications related to the framework, including the curriculum area of Wellbeing (which includes learning pertaining to SPHE/RSE) formally commences in September 2022 with the establishment of Development Groups with responsibility for the development of the curriculum area. It is expected that the work of the Development Group will be completed in early 2025. Upon completion, the curriculum specifications will be furnished to the Minister for approval.
In the meantime, initial work has begun on developing the research base for the curriculum area of Wellbeing. NCCA is currently tendering for researchers to develop a comprehensive research base upon which the specification will be developed. It is expected that the research will be published in Spring 2023.
An updated resource portal and toolkit for teachers has also been developed which is supporting teachers in topics including:
- Teaching about consent
- Using inclusive and respectful language
- Supporting children living with domestic violence and abuse
- Fostering positive relationships
- Taking care of my body
- Growing and changing.
