Introducing coding would require upgrade, says INTO

Any move to introduce coding to the primary maths programme would require proper staff training and equipment for schools, a teachers’ union said.

It was responding to Education Minister Richard Bruton’s request that coding be considered for inclusion in a primary maths curriculum. The changes are subject of a review only in its preliminary stages by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA).

While acknowledging this is the appropriate stage to make such a proposal, the Irish National Teachers’ Organisation (INTO) says the minister should be willing to provide necessary support if it is adopted. “The easy part is suggesting coding be taught; the challenge for the minister will be to address the skills gap that there will be among teachers, provide the professional development and training needed to bridge that gap, and resource primary schools in terms of hardware and, particularly, connectivity.”