The CDU, based in Stranmillis University College, was in operation from September 2002 – August 2007. The CDU was set up to develop an Ulster-Scots curriculum and produce materials for teaching language, history and culture. During 2006-2007, the materials were piloted by the CDU staff in 22 schools, (including both primary and post-primary schools) in Northern Ireland.
The inspectorate found that the materials provided good background to the history and the culture of Ulster-Scots with opportunities to learn about the development of its language and literature.
Chief Inspector Stanley Goudie commented on the findings: “The project was well received in the pilot schools and fulfilled its basic remit in producing materials for the teaching of language, history and culture. The materials produced have the potential to support important areas of the curriculum at both primary and post-primary levels.
“However, the management of the project had significant weaknesses and the limited involvement of the teaching staff and lack of access to the materials has meant that the interest and positive responses have not been built upon. The materials produced, while current at the time, would now need to be updated in line with the revised curriculum.”
Notes to Editors
- The total cost of the project, including Stranmillis’ management fees was in the region of £1,717,442.
- The evidence for the report is based on interviews with the Stranmillis and CDU staff, with representatives from the Agency, the USAIG, a focus group arranged by the Stranmillis and CDU staff, to which teachers from the pilot were invited, a scrutiny of the materials for primary and post-primary schools provided by the Agency, a scrutiny of documentation provided by the College and visits to eight schools
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