6. Key Strategic Directions

The key strategic directions described by the Physical Education Association of Ireland are as follows:

1. Formulate a proposed action plan for the further development of Physical Education in Ireland and advocate its inclusion in the programme for Government and its implementation among key Government departments and national agencies.
   
   
2. Endorse the Berlin Agenda (Appendix 1) and the Declaration of Punta del Este (Appendix 2) and enshrine the principles described within the key strategic directions of the PEAI.
   
   
3. Concept and Delivery of Physical Education: Re-definition of the concept of Physical Education and the method of its delivery in line with changing needs of students and the demands of Irish society in the new millennium.
   Actions:
   1. Assist in the definition of and support the pathway for quality Physical Education at primary and post-primary level.
      
   2. Consult members on a strategic plan for Physical Education and for the PEAI
      
   3. Organise national conference around new developments
      
   4. Be to the fore in responding to new curricular developments
      
   5. Increase public awareness and understanding of the contribution of the Physical Education profession to Irish Life through political lobbying and promotional activities.
      
      
4. Organisation Structure: Re-establishment of a strong organisational infrastructure.
   Actions:
   1. Seek Ratification of strategic plan at AGM
      
   2. Seek State and corporate support for the development of key projects
      
   3. Re-organise the PEAI in line with strategic plan.
      
   4. Re-establish a working office to effectively achieve strategies and provide services to membership.
      
      
5. Education and Training: Support education, training, in-service and public awareness functions. Support pupil focused initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of Physical Education for pupils.
   Actions:
   
   1. Position the PEAI as a support agency to Primary School PE developments
      
   2. Develop realistic policies on the provisions and resources necessary for the full implementation of the new PE syllabi.
      
   3. Identify the role of the PEAI in providing support for the preparation of school plans in Physical Education.
      
      
6. Representation and Alliance: Form alliances with agencies involved in the promotion of physical activity with the aim of enhancing the subject status of Physical Education. In particular, develop policies and programmes to support the goals of the Departments of Education and Science, Health and Children, Tourism, Sport and Recreation, Justice, Equality and Law Reform, the Irish Sports Council, National Governing Bodies of Sport, politicians, parents groups and other agencies.
   Actions:
   
   1. Articulate agreed policies to the Departments of Education and Science, Health and Children, Tourism, Sport and Recreation, Justice, Equality and Law Reform, the Irish Sports Council, National Governing Bodies of Sport, politicians, parents groups and other agencies
      
   2. Draft a list of key stakeholders for inclusion in mini-forum to discuss the formation of an alliance with agreed roles.
      
   3. Developing close working links for mutual benefits
      
   4. Seek constitutional reform in relation to Article 42.3.2
      
      
7. NCEF (National Certificate for Exercise and Fitness): Consolidate the progress made by the PEAI and the NCEF in providing a framework for the qualification of exercise and fitness instructors. Ensure that NCEF structures are fully incorporated in emerging Irish Sports Council policies.
   Actions
   
   1. Agree strategic direction for NCEF with the Irish Sports Council
      
   2. Develop a new strategy and organisational structure for the NCEF
      
   3. Publicise the progress and contribution of the PEAI and the NCEF has played in regulating national standards for the exercise and fitness industry.