Dear R.E. Teacher / Chaplain,
Over the last year I have had the opportunity to discuss with many of you the proposals to reform the Junior Cycle and the implications for both R.E as an exam subject and as a non-exam one. The Minister’s headline grabbing announcement today offers little new detail to his or the NCCA’s previous ones except for the small matter of the terminal exams in 3rd year being corrected in-house by teachers!
It is important for R.E. departments to begin discussing how they would like to see R.E. developed as part of the new Junior Cycle programme. I want to assure you that the Dublin Archdiocese is actively involved in looking at ways to support the development of R.E. in the new Junior Cycle including the possibility of offering certification (as we have done in TY and senior cycle) for both in-house school R.E. courses and a R.E. course developed by the diocese.
In his homily for the opening of the school year, Archbishop Martin, gives some wise words to reflect on: “These are challenging times. They are, however, great times to be involved in education. For the first time in generations there is real ferment in Irish educational reflection as we take a fundamental new look at our entire educational system. There is a sense of common search for a new and integrated educational policy which responds to the needs of today and tomorrow… Education is … not just about allowing the talents of the young person to flourish, academically and technically. It also involves education to responsibility. Young people must be helped to see that they belong to a community and a society for which they must take responsibility. This involves education to morality and fundamentally to the ability to seek and discern what is truthful and good in the fullest sense.”
Please do get in touch if you have any questions or concerns about the proposed reforms and I hope to organise a forum later in the year where the future of R.E. in the Junior Cycle can be discussed.