22nd September 2025
The Irish National Teachers’ Organisation (INTO) welcomes the publication of the new primary curriculum, recognising its relevance to today’s educational needs. INTO commends the NCCA’s work in developing these specifications.
The INTO also recognises the substantial effort made by the NCCA in facilitating this extensive consultation process and thanks the thousands of primary teachers who engaged with the process. Teachers provide a real-life perspective, ensuring that the curriculum not only addresses academic outcomes but also considers the practical realities of everyday classroom life and that it is adaptable and responsive to the needs of all pupils throughout its lifecycle.
However, INTO stresses that teachers’ and school leaders’ voices must be central to the rollout. Their classroom experience is vital for effective implementation. The government must urgently reduce class sizes to European norms and increase the primary capitation grant to give the new curriculum the best chance of success.
Minister McEntee’s commitment to supporting teachers during the phased rollout is essential. Teachers require ongoing professional development, clear guidance, and dedicated time for training and whole-school planning. All core training should be delivered face-to-face during school hours.
Professional development must empower teachers and pupils, promote play-based learning, and ensure alignment between Aistear, the Primary Curriculum, and Junior Cycle. Teachers need training and streamlined systems for diverse assessment methods.
Flexible planning must match inspectorate expectations, with practical tools for individual and whole-school planning. Integrated approaches and training are needed to alleviate curriculum overload. Paperwork should be streamlined, and the number of Department of Education and Youth initiatives and other government initiatives impacting schools must be reduced to allow time for embedding the new curriculum.
Annual grants for each curriculum specification must be delivered as promised. Equal access to technology, training in its use, and funding for assistive technology are critical.
Early intervention, mental health supports, and resources for children with additional needs are also essential. Schools need improved facilities and equipment to provide suitable learning environments.
The previous curriculum suffered from overcrowded classes and low investment. With nearly 420,000 children in classes above the EU average and Ireland ranking lowest in the OECD for per-pupil spending, there is a real risk the new curriculum will not succeed.
Reacting to the publication of the new primary curriculum, INTO General Secretary John Boyle said:
If the Department of Education and Youth wants the new curriculum to succeed, it must be supported with smaller classes, higher investment, and comprehensive, school-based teacher professional development. This should be delivered gradually, giving teachers the time and space to ensure the curriculum meets pupils’ needs and enhances teachers’ professional lives.