As the Deputy is aware, through the Senior Cycle Redevelopment programme, the specifications for all Leaving Certificate curricular subjects are scheduled to be redeveloped by 2029, in annual groupings referred to as tranches. The revised specification for Leaving Certificate Physical Education (LCPE) will be implemented in schools for those starting fifth year from the 2026/27 school year.
The new specification includes an Additional Assessment Component (AAC), called the Physical Education Project, worth 50% of the final available marks. The LCPE Additional Assessment Component provides an opportunity for students to demonstrate their understanding and application of physical education knowledge and skills described in the learning outcomes across the specification.
LCPE was first introduced in 2018. The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA) initiated an early enactment review process in the 2022/2023 school year when students had completed the curriculum and assessment arrangements as set out in the specifications. The full report of the early enactment review was published in March 2023 and is available on the NCCA website.
In 2024, as part of the development process for the Tranche 2 subjects, the NCCA convened a Development Group to redevelop the specifications for Leaving Certificate Physical Education. Challenges identified in the early enactment review were considered, including difficulties reported about monitoring and assessing students’ activities when pursued outside of school, and also challenges with oversight of learning and assessment when engagement occurs primarily outside the PE class.
While the opportunities for students to undertake assessment in external pursuits was recognised, concerns were raised regarding the practicalities of teachers being able to authenticate such work. Further concerns related to equitable access for all students to curriculum-based learning experiences, with significant consideration given to ensuring that the role of performance is framed in a way that supports inclusive, school-based learning rather than reliance on external participation in outside activities. In addition, the need for assessment arrangements, recognising organisational limitations relating to the availability of examiners with relevant expertise across all physical activities was discussed by the Group.
While not all activities can be accommodated within the arrangements for assessment for certification, the subject continues to value and support students’ engagement in a wide range of physical activities beyond the school environment. The specification, including Appendix 2 that outlines the list of physical activities eligible for selection to demonstrate student learning for the AAC, will be reviewed following the completion of examinations by the first cohort of students.
The guidelines to support the AAC associated with the revised PE specification are available on www.curriculumonline.ie. This provides clear guidance on how to complete the AAC and how to meet clear descriptors of quality.
