Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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91. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the actions taken to date in respect of leaving certificate reform; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6953/22]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy is aware, between 2016 and 2020 the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA) undertook an extensive review of senior cycle programmes and vocational pathways. The NCCA’s Advisory Report on the Senior Cycle has been submitted to my Department for consideration.

The Advisory Report maps out, in broad terms, an ambitious programme of work, which would enable the development and construction of the components that would make up a Framework for Senior Cycle and will involve further ongoing stakeholder engagement and consultation. As the consideration of the Advisory Report has continued my officials have had some contacts with officials in the NCCA and SEC to ensure there is a clarity of understanding on some matters identified in the Report. I have had a considerable number of briefing sessions and meetings with relevant officials in my Department as our consideration of the NCCA Advisory Report has continued.

I am aware of the desire in the education community and more generally that the NCCA Advisory Report be published but we must first complete our consideration of the Report. I am currently focusing on what the implementation of the Report would involve and what we can do to best ensure the further evolution of Senior Cycle. My officials and I have been considering the Report carefully, with a view to delivering a Senior Cycle programme that meets the needs of the students of today and the future, and the Report will be published once those considerations are complete.