Ms Arlene Forster:

I will go straight into the advisory report.

Throughout all four years of the senior cycle review one prominent theme, in addition to those I mentioned already, was the ambition to conserve what is really good, what works well and the strengths, alongside ongoing evolution. Many strengths were identified through the review, including the range of subjects and modules that are already in existence and the opportunities they present to young people, as well as the range of assessment approaches and methods in particular during transition year, the leaving certificate applied, and the leaving certificate vocational programme. There is rich practice in those programmes. Some of the other strengths referenced were the addition in more recent years of additional assessment components and the opportunities those present to young people to demonstrate a greater range of learning.

Transition year received huge positivity and support throughout the review. What was highlighted in particular were the unique opportunities transition year opens up for young people's learning without the pressure of a State exam. The school-based dimension of transition year was highlighted again and again.

Many strengths were identified, but I will call on Ms O'Connor and Mr. Slattery if there were additional strengths they may want to highlight.