23 October 2003

Two Curriculum bodies meet in Armagh

Ireland's two main Curriculum Bodies are to meet in Armagh today and tomorrow to discuss education issues of common interest across the island of Ireland.

The Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) and their Southern Irish counterparts, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA) will meet in the City Hotel, Armagh to discuss developments in e-learning, education for employability and reviewing the primary and 16 – 19 curriculum.

Welcoming the NCCA delegates, Chairman of CCEA, Dr Alan Lennon said: "It is striking to note the similarity of the challenges facing our two organizations and thus more important than ever that we share ideas and approaches."

Dr. Catherine O’ Brien, Chairperson of NCCA, added: "As the leading development in education north and south, both Councils face a range of common challenges, not least of which is ensuring that young people are ready to contribute to and participate in the knowledge society. Both Councils are committed to moving our schools and students into the forefront of this development."

This is the sixth occasion on which the members of the two Councils have met in joint session.

(MB)