In line with the Framework for Junior Cycle (2015), new subject specifications for Junior Cycle Geography, History, Home Economics, Mathematics and Music were introduced in schools in September 2018 as part of Phase 4 of the introduction of new subject specifications. The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA) conducted an early insights review between November 2023 to February 2024 to gather feedback to evaluate and explore:
- how well the specifications get to the heart of the learning aspired to within each subject and more broadly within the Framework for Junior Cycle
- the assessment elements within each subject, as experienced by students and teachers
- how teachers are exercising their professional judgement to mediate the new specification in their schools and classrooms.
A new History specification will be introduced to schools in September 2018.
The specification aims to develop in students an interest and enthusiasm for history and to enable them to acquire values and attitudes that shape their view of people in the past, including a regard for heritage and their cultural inheritance, and a sense of historical empathy, where people are judged in the context and values of the time in which they lived.
Students will develop a disciplinary awareness through exploring the past from different perspectives; thinking critically about issues, events and people they encounter; interrogating sources of evidence objectively and making judgements about viewpoints expressed, including the capacity to identify propaganda.
For students entering first year before September 2018 the Junior Certificate History syllabus applies.
For students entering first year in or after September 2018 the new Junior Cycle History specification applies. Both can be viewed here.
The consultation for the Early Enactment Review of junior cycle History is now open. The consultation consists of a number of components, including written submissions, a teacher survey and a school-based component. The purpose of the review is to gather feedback from school management, teacher/educators and interested parties in relation to the experience of these subjects and their associated assessment arrangements in schools.
You can participate in this consultation by completing the online questionnaire.
You can also participate in this consultation by sending a written submission using this template. Please send it to consultations@ncca.ie and use “JC Phase 4 Early Enactment Review (Subject Name) Written Submission” in the subject line.
All of the feedback will be analysed and an Early Enactment Report will be published.
This review process will close on Thursday 29 February at 5pm.
The Junior Cycle History specification will be introduced into schools in September 2018. The development of the specification began in November 2016.
The background paper and consultation report for Junior Cycle History explores the development of the subject at junior cycle; highlights good practice at home and abroad; and to uses evidence-based research to inform the revision of the specification.
The History Development Group consists of the nominees from a range of education stakeholders including teacher and management bodies, Department of Education and Skills, and the State Examinations Commission.
This group oversaw the development of a draft Junior Cycle History specification from September 2016 to March 2017. The draft specification and consultation report is available here.
Watch our Student Voice video here.
Junior Cycle History: Student Voice