Second-level teachers to protest outside Kildare schools over Senior Cycle concerns

Today, November 19, second-level teachers in St. Wolstan’s Community School and nationwide will hold a lunchtime protest outside their schools in which they will seek a delay in the implementation of Senior Cycle redevelopment. 

The protest follows a decision to ‘accelerate’ Senior Cycle redevelopment plans. Teachers are gravely concerned that aspects of the plans pose a threat to education standards, fairness and quality. They also have concerns about current system capacity to accommodate such major change. 

The protest, which is taking place nationwide, is being organised by second-level teacher unions the TUI and the ASTI. Upwards of 30,000 second-level teachers all over the country will participate in the protest. Service to students will not be affected. 

Teachers are not opposed to the redevelopment of the Senior Cycle. However, for successful implementation, it is crucial that:

• Sufficient resources are provided to ensure a smooth and effective roll-out. Such resources must be allocated equitably across all schools/centres
• Any changes to subjects/specifications are not rushed through, are of educational benefit to our students and are based on the professional views of those practitioners tasked with delivery
•  Comprehensive and fully informed in-service training is provided to all teachers well in advance of implementation

What? Protest of TUI members outside St Wolstan’s Community School, Celbridge.  

Where?Outside main gates of the school on the footpath on the Clane Road (R403)

When? Tuesday, November 19 from 12:40 – 13:20

Contact details: For further comment or to arrange an interview please contact TUI representative Simon Tighe, St Wolstan’s Commmunity School, stighe@stwolstans.ie  0863730716