ASTI members have voted to reject the document Senior Cycle Redevelopment – Implementation Support Measures by 68% to 32%. (Turnout: 73%)
The outcome clearly establishes two major difficulties: a lack of confidence in the accelerated Senior Cycle Redevelopment Programme as it is currently constituted and a resounding rejection of the package of implementation support measures on offer from the Department of Education.
In a separate ballot, ASTI members have voted by 67% to 33% in favour of industrial action, if necessary, up to and including strike action, in opposition to the accelerated implementation of the Senior Cycle Redevelopment Programme. (Turnout: 70%)
Commenting on the outcome, ASTI General Secretary Kieran Christie said:
“It is clear that second-level teachers have real and significant concerns about the implementation of the accelerated Senior Cycle Redevelopment Programme. ASTI research published in 2025 shows that a key concern is the lack of resources and capacity in schools to introduce such radical change in an effective manner. Furthermore, the supports on offer do little to provide a Senior Cycle experience for all students that addresses the core inequalities that are in place in the second-level system.
“The ASTI research also finds that the majority of second-level teachers are concerned about developments in AI, authentication of Additional Assessment Components, and insufficient teacher training in some subject areas. The support package available from the Department fails to sufficiently address these concerns.”
The ASTI will continue to be available to engage with the Minister for Education and Youth and her Department in relation to how these and other significant concerns can be addressed.
ENDS
Issued by: Gemma Tuffy, ASTI Media/ Communications Official. Tel: 01/6040172
