Physical Education

This section provides information on the developments in PE

JC Physical Education Network

A new 135 hour Physical Education specification for Junior Cycle is being introduced to 1st year students from September 2023. The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA) is convening a Junior Cycle Physical Education (JCPE) Network. The purpose of this network is to gain insights into the enactment of the new specification across post-primary schools. There is a particular focus on assessment in JCPE, planning for teaching and learning, and gathering examples of practice.

The network will be made up of 6 - 8 schools. Schools will be asked to commit to being involved for three years. The feedback from the network will inform the implementation of JCPE.

We greatly appreciate the value and importance of working directly with schools to hear the views of students, teachers and school leaders.

The background paper and consultation report for Junior Cycle Physical Education explores the development of the subject at junior cycle; highlights good practice at home and abroad; and uses evidence-based research to inform the revision of the specification.

Background Paper and Brief for the Review of Junior Cycle PE

PE Background Paper: Consultation Report

The PE 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. The membership of the development group can be viewed here. Reports of development group meetings can be accessed below. 

Reports of PE Development Group meetings