Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 April 2024
356. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Education the action he plans to take to ensure that there is equity in standards of laboratory facilities and laboratory resources as well as access to laboratory technicians in those schools where no laboratory technicians are available and in which sub-standard laboratories and lack of laboratory resources exist (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19404/24]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, in 2022 I set out an ambitious programme for the redevelopment of Senior Cycle, guided by the vision of a Senior Cycle that delivers “equity and excellence for all.” Under this redevelopment, specifications for all Leaving Certificate subjects will be revised, and will incorporate an Additional Assessment Component (AAC) worth a minimum of 40% of the available marks.
Through the introduction of AACs, I am broadening the range of skills being assessed, recognising different types of learning, and reducing the emphasis on terminal written examinations. For the three new science curricula, these AACs – called “science in practice” investigations - involve students completing a piece of work as evidence of their ability to conduct scientific research on a particular issue and to use appropriate primary data to investigate aspects of that issue. It is not intended that these investigations are solely restricted to laboratory-based work.
I acknowledge that hands-on experience and access to appropriate facilities and time in laboratories is an important part of the science curriculum. My Department and I will continue to examine how schools can be supported in the introduction of the new science curricula. This will include considering any resource and facilities’ needs ahead of the introduction of revised specifications for those entering fifth year in 2025.
More generally, my Department provides Science Laboratories with the construction of all new post-primary schools and such facilities may also be provided where a major building or refurbishment project is being delivered for an existing school. My Department provides funding toward the provision of furniture and equipment for the Science Labs.
In addition, the number of Science Laboratories provided in a project varies with the size of school. For example, a new 1,000 pupil post primary school is provided with 6 Science Laboratories plus 3 preparation areas, whilst a new 500 pupil post primary school is provided with 4 Science Laboratories plus 2 preparation areas.
It is open to a school authority to make an application for additional accommodation through the 'Additional School Accommodation (ASA ) scheme' for Science Laboratory provision.
The NCCA is currently reviewing the feedback that was received during the public consultation period for the three revised science subjects as part of Senior Cycle Redevelopment. This feedback will inform the work of the Development Groups in finalising the specifications, including the AACs.
Furthermore, support is available for Teacher Professional Learning through a concurrent, comprehensive programme for teachers provided by Oide. the integrated support service for teachers and school leaders. The State Examinations Commission will also provide a range of sample assessment materials supporting the rollout of new and revised curricula, including that of the three science subjects, and the associated teacher professional learning.
