JCPE - Junior Cycle Physical Education Support Service

What is school based support?

School based support is one of a range of measures designed to help and support physical education teachers in their efforts to provide quality physical education at junior cycle. School based support is structured so as to meet the professional needs of the teacher, on an individual or small group basis, and is specific to a school or local context. It is designed to supplement the formal in-service days, allowing time for exploration of specific aspects of the syllabus and its implementation. Those schools who have not engaged in the formal in-service process are advised to contact the Programme Administrator Phone: 094 9020789 Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to avail of alternative support measures.

Who facilitates the school based support?
This service is facilitated by the Support Service, which is made up of a team of two physical education teachers seconded from their schools to the JCPESS on a full time basis and a panel of Associate Trainers seconded on a part-time basis.

Who does the JCPESS support?

The Support Service works with:

• individual physical education teachers
• teams of teachers who comprise the physical education department of a school
• clusters of physical education teachers who have participated in the formal in-service programme

What forms of school based support are provided?

School based support will be undertaken, where resources permit, in response to requests.  In this context, the JCPESS offers a range of supports to schools:

• Once-off school visit

A half day once-off school visit, targeted at a specific need that has been identified by the physical education teacher.  Facilitated physical education department meetings, groups or individual teachers, workshops and demonstrations may be incorporated into this form of support.

•  Sustained support

Sustained Model of support consists of a period of support equivalent to and ranging from three to six half day sessions.  The support offered will be targeted at a specific need which has been identified by the school or cluster of schools e.g. the development of areas of study, the adoption of new pedagogies and assessment practices.

•  In-school workshops

Where it is possible and appropriate, the JCPESS will organise workshops which may involve teachers and pupils learning together.

•  After-school workshops or demonstrations

If a school wishes to host a workshop or demonstration after school in a local venue, the JCPESS may be available to facilitate this through assistance with prior arrangements.

•  Local clusters

Three or four schools within a locality may ‘cluster' to access support.  The focus of this support is to be agreed prior to commencement.

Other forms of support:

• Website www.jcpe.ie provides teachers with:

up to date information on developments in physical education

information and resources relating to junior cycle physical education

a facility to exchange opinions, ideas and resources

•  Electronic mailing list

Our electronic mailing/discussion group was established to provide a supported community where teachers learn from each other, can share resources, expertise and other benefits.

•  Newsletter

The support service publishes an annual newsletter to keep physical education teachers abreast of developments, courses, and other supports available.

How do I apply for School Based Support?
Click here to download application form.  Please forward completed form to JCPESS, Mayo Education Centre, Westport Road, Castlebar, Co. Mayo.