Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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Question 353: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the number of post-primary schools that have now introduced the "project maths" curriculum; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33823/10]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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Project Maths began in all second level schools from September 2010. The Project Maths initiative is designed to encourage better understanding of Maths, to reinforce the practical relevance of maths to everyday life, and to ensure better continuity between primary and second level, and junior and senior cycle. A key objective is to improve attainment levels in maths and to encourage more students to take the subject at higher level.

The initiative started in 2008 in 24 schools, and the experience in the project schools is informing the national mainstreaming of the initiative. A national programme of professional development for all teachers began in 2009, and will continue to at least 2013.

The NCCA website www.ncca.ie. sets out the draft syllabus for Strands 1, 2, 3 and 4 at junior and senior cycle, a draft common Mathematics course for the first year in junior cycle, and a Geometry course. The website www.ProjectMaths.ie sets out additional supports in the form of teaching and learning plans, a forum for teachers, and additional resources. These resources will expand over time. Overall, the changes will be implemented in 5 strands of mathematics over a 3 year period.

Project Maths is being supported by intensive investment in professional development for teachers, with some €5m being invested in this area in 2010.