I propose to take Questions Nos. 316 to 319, inclusive, 320, 324, 347 to 349, inclusive, 351 and 378 together.
The summer course programme for teachers contributes to the continuum of teachers’ professional learning, promotes innovation and excellence in teaching, learning and assessment, and is supportive of the goals set out as per the new national priorities. The principal objective of the summer course programme is to improve the learning experiences of teachers and to ensure that their learning has a lasting impact on pupils’ learning outcomes and experiences.
Having considered the findings of a review of the Summer Course Programme my Department introduced some changes to the format of online summer courses. Providers, including the INTO, and teachers have expressed concerns regarding some of these changes and a meeting was held to discuss their concerns further.
Following consideration of the issues raised during the meeting, my Department has decided to adjust the 2023 Summer Course Programme to include the reintroduction of the former asynchronous model as an option for summer 2023. The providers have been advised of these adjustments today. The adjustments will be reflected in a revised 2023 handbook.