Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

There is potential to reform senior cycle education to ensure there is an emphasis on embedding key skills, such as critical thinking and information processing, and that assessment methods match learning objectives in each subject. I am conscious that if we review the assessment methods and provide for a second assessment component, where appropriate and feasible, we could reduce exam pressure on students. I am determined to ensure we build on the strengths of the existing leaving certificate system, which is widely regarded as fair and is held in high regard internationally. There is much at stake. I owe it to our young people to take action on this issue in a measured and well-thought-out way.

As the Deputy is aware, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment has statutory responsibility for advising me on these matters. When the council made proposals for senior cycle reform last year, I responded by stressing the objectives I have outlined. I addressed this issue when I spoke to the first meeting of the new council last week. I highlighted the need to prioritise proposals in relation to mathematics, science and Irish. The Deputy is aware of my views on how senior cycle Irish should be reformed to place a greater emphasis on the spoken language. I understand the council's recommendations in these areas should be submitted to me early in 2007. The Department of Education and Science is also exploring whether changes to examination timetabling might be feasible from 2007. A number of proposals to reduce exam pressure on students are being considered. The Deputy can be assured of my determination to take action in this regard in a careful and considered way in the interests of our young people.

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