Disgruntled secondary teachers must change for the better

Teachers’ criticism of the proposed junior cycle misses the point. The current system is not fit for purpose, writes Tony Donohoe            

FOR over 20 years, the Junior Certificate has been little more than a dress-rehearsal for the Leaving Certificate. Yet its over-crowded, rigid, and subject-based approach has come to dominate secondary school teaching. This needs to change.

The proposed new Junior Cycle Student Award is designed to help students develop the type of minds they need to thrive in the modern world. By providing an opportunity for continuous feedback and using multiple methods of assessment, it will help provide a more solid foundation for further study, personal development, and a lifetime of learning.