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IMS Statement on Leaving Certificate Curriculum Revision in Mathematics

The Irish Mathematical Society (IMS) is the national professional society representing the community of mathematicians based in Ireland, whose purpose is to promote and extend knowledge of mathematics and its applications. The IMS expresses its deep concern about the changes to the senior cycle post-primary curriculum that are proposed in the draft that is currently the subject of a public consultation. These curriculum proposals continue a trend of diminishing the breadth, depth and rigour of mathematical engagement by post-primary students in Ireland. This will negatively impact students whose future career paths involve quantitative learning, across STEM, finance, business and other fields. More generally, it will limit opportunities for students to experience the joy and power of creative mathematical thinking.

Effective renewal and modernisation of curricula requires concentrated engagement by practising subject experts who have knowledge of current research and industry directions, in close cooperation with practising teachers and representatives of other relevant professions. The input of subject experts is needed at every stage of the design process, not through a public consultation after the publication of a draft. The published draft lacks the coherence that would emerge from a mutually informed process that appropriately incorporates diverse expertise. If adopted, it will fail to prepare young people with the knowledge, skills and capabilities needed for life, work and further study.

We note that the 2025 PISA results announced this week again show a relatively low proportion of students showing advanced proficiency in mathematical literacy in Ireland, despite baselines that compare favorably to EU and OECD countries. If the current draft curriculum is adopted, this effect will become more pronounced and the negative impact on Ireland's competitiveness will persist for decades. The IMS is willing and available to contribute subject expertise to the design of a reimagined modern curriculum for post-primary mathematics education in Ireland.