The Junior Certificate programme came into operation for the first time in September 1989, with the first examinations in 1992. The process of curriculum reform was marked by a phased programme of syllabus revision and accompanying support for teachers through in-service courses and teaching guidelines.
Ten subjects were involved in the first phase of syllabus revision. The second phase contains six subjects Environmental and Social Studies, Home Economics, Materials Technology (Wood), Music, Technical Graphics and Typewriting.
Syllabuses have been devised by course committees established by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment. These course committees were also responsible for drawing up Guidelines as aids to teachers in interpreting and implementing the syllabuses.
These guidelines are not prescriptive. Each teacher is free to choose his or her preferred teaching methodology for the achievement of the specified objectives and desired outcomes of each syllabus. These guidelines offer some suggestions which maybe of further help to teachers. Particular attention is paid to aspects of the new syllabus with which teachers might not be very familiar.
The guidelines are but one part of an overall programme of support for teachers. It is envisaged, for example, that in service courses will focus on many issues raised in the guidelines.
Some general features should inform the teaching and learning associated with the new syllabuses
- each syllabus should be taught with conscious reference to the overall aims of the Junior Certificate programme (see inside front cover). Numerous opportunities exist for cross-curriculum linkages and these should be taken.
- teaching practice should highlight the economic, social and cultural implications of Ireland's membership of the European Community and the challenges and opportunities which this provides within a wider context of citizenship.