Episode 17

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Published on:

8th Oct 2021

Is the Leaving Cert Fit for Purpose?

Is the leaving cert really still fit for purpose?

This is the question we explore tonight, when we go inside our schools.

With the Oireachtas Education Committee meeting the various management bodies and teacher trade unions over the last number of weeks, coupled with recent calls from senators, TD celebrities, and journalists, Now more than ever, there seems to be a move towards Leaving Cert Reform.

In tonight's episode, I am joined by two of our resident guests,

Mark Walshe, a computer science and modern foreign languages teacher

and

Robert Chaney, a teacher of mathematics.

We discuss the calls for reform the reasons given for the need for such reform. And we ask the question, Is the leaving cert curriculum, really the correct target here? Or is it something else entirely? Such as the inequality in our society, the chronic underfunding of education and the pressure that is created by the CAO points race?

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About the Podcast

Inside Our Schools
A podcast discussing all issues around Education in Ireland. Bringing the inside conversations outside.

About your host

Profile picture for Andrew Phelan

Andrew Phelan

Andrew has been teaching Physical Education for the last 20 years in Dublin, Ireland. He holds a BA Hons in Physical Education and an MSc in Strength and Conditioning. Andrew is a passionate trade unionist and has been a member of the teachers' union, the ASTI, for 20 years, serving a full term on its executive (Standing Committee) from 2015-2021. He is a member of the PEAI and currently an ASTI representative for PE on the NCCA.