By Irishexaminer.com,Jess Casey Education Correspondent
Copyright irishexaminer
Many teachers expected equipment for the new subject, such as lights and cameras to be in place in schools before the summer holidays.
However, the Drama, Film and Theatre Teachers’ Association say some teachers have yet to receive the necessary technical equipment.
“It’s like teaching woodwork without any wood,” said chairperson Conor Murphy.
It’s like having all the ingredients for home economics but no ovens to bake them in.
Students are really enthusiastic about the new course, he stressed. “It’s a course that has long been needed in this country.”
“Its great to see, and its wonderful to teach. Its the highlight of my week, but we don’t have the necessary equipment.”
Teachers had planned to use the summer months to become acquainted with equipment for the course, Mr Murphy said.
As it stands now, we will be learning how to use the cameras at the same time as the students.
Mr Murphy, who was involved in the development group for the subject, said the course is intended to be “hands on”, with students making their own films from day one.
“I’m teaching my class now like a Transition Year class; they are using their mobile phones to film together at the same time, but you can’t make a film properly that way.”
Editing software
As well as lighting and sound equipment, access to editing software is also crucial for the course, Mr Murphy added.
“Even when we do get the cameras, lighting, and sound equipment we still won’t be able to make any films because the computers to edit the films won’t arrive until some distant time in the future. We haven’t been told when they will arrive.”
A spokesman for the Department of Education said the deadline for schools to apply for equipment was September 12.
“Deliveries began to schools this week,” he added.
“Schools in the free education scheme will also receive an annual grant of €50 per student to support engagement with the subject, including attendance at performances and creative projects.”
“Schools have been given free access to material and resources on a dedicated Drama, Film and Theatre Channel via the Irish Film Institute, and a subscription to the Drama Online National Theatre Collection. Training has also been provided by Oide,” he added.
The two new Leaving Certificate subjects, drama, film and theatre studies and climate action and sustainable development, will be examined for the first time in 2027.
