The amount of time that is allocated to each subject in the Irish curriculum needs to be reassessed, according to Minister for Education Ruairí Quinn.

Writing in the Irish Times, Mr Quinn insisted that although two recent international reports have adjudged that Irish students are performing at an above average level, it is his "duty not to be complacent".

Pointing to the fact that students in Northern Ireland achieved better results in mathematics, the Minister said that he believes the key to more success in the subject is to ensure a higher standard of knowledge amongst primary school teachers.

Irish pupils recorded "somewhat disappointing" results in science and Mr Quinn acknowledged the fact that children in other countries spend more time studying the subject than those in
Ireland needs to be addressed.

He said: "I have asked the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment to review the recommended time allocations for all subjects in the primary school."

The review will act as a precursor to an "inclusive debate" on the subject, Mr Quinn stated.

Written by Donal Walsh

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