Discussions on a new style exam – with a greater focus on independent learning – will begin shortly. A spokesman for the Education Minister said the emphasis is on improving and modernising the curriculum and drawing on international best practice.

Twenty years ago, the Junior Cert exam replaced the Inter Cert and was intended to broaden the educational experience of students.

However, with the passage of years it became generally accepted that this was not happening. A study by the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) highlighted the negative effects on teenagers of the workload associated with the Junior Cert exam, which is largely seen as a practice run for the Leaving Certificate.

Minister Batt O'Keeffe has acknowledged that the Junior Cert is “driven by rote learning and examination pressures, rather than the promotion of real understanding and skills”. Last June, he ordered a review of the programme. The Minister wants to see greater stress on assessment for learning; practical, project and portfolio assessment; and self-directed learning.

One model discussed by the NCCA would involve an initial induction year which would allow first-years to be introduced to new subjects and new teachers and assessed informally at the end of the year. The following two years would then be spent in preparation for the state exam.  

Another option could see the number of subjects examined reduced to four or five – to include English, maths and Irish - with other subjects informally assessed. 

Alternatively, students might sit exams in six or seven subjects, rather than the nine or more subjects currently sat by most Junior Certificate candidates. (Sources: Irish Times; Irish Examiner)