Changes to Junior Cert exam welcomed

The head of St Patrick’s teacher training college in Drumcondra has welcomed forthcoming changes to the Junior Certificate exam…

The head of St Patrick’s teacher training college in Drumcondra has welcomed forthcoming changes to the Junior Certificate exam system announced by Minister for Education Ruairí Quinn.

The structure, details of which were unveiled last month, will mean the introduction of “continuous assessment” aimed at improving the quality of learning.

Yesterday, Dr Daire Keogh, president of St Patrick’s college, backed the move and said there was a “need for a generous investment” in teacher preparation.

“The proposed syllabus promises an attractive programme which will develop the necessary skills for students not merely to function, but to flourish in life. It will challenge students and nurture their curiosity, creativity and flexibility.”

Mark Hilliard

Mark Hilliard

Mark Hilliard is a reporter with The Irish Times