Curriculum changes and next year’s State exams are under the microscope in the Department of Education because of the coronavirus, its most senior official will confirm at a hearing of the Oireachtas Covid-19 committee today. Seán Ó Foghlú, secretary general of the Department, is appearing before the committee to discuss planning to support the re-opening of schools in the autumn. He will tell the committee that the disruption to education has brought curricular challenges, which are being worked on in conjunction with the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA). In the meantime, according to Mr Ó Foghlú, the interim advice provides a platform for engagement with the education partners towards detailed planning for re-opening of schools. His Department is defining what is needed, preparing cost estimates and is engaging with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform in relation to financial support.

Source: Irish Independent July 10, 2020 05:03 UTC