An Overview of the Junior Cycle SPHE CBA Based on the 2024 NCCA Guidelines for the Classroom-Based Assessment (PP)

An Overview of the Junior Cycle SPHE CBA Based on the 2024 NCCA Guidelines for the Classroom-Based Assessment

DATE:    Tuesday, 10th February 2026
TIME:      7:00 – 8.00pm
VENUE:  Online Via Zoom

Target Audience: Post Primary SPHE Junior Cycle Teachers and SPHE Coordinators

This webinar provides a clear, practical overview of the Junior Cycle SPHE Classroom-Based Assessment (CBA), grounded firmly in the 2024 NCCA Guidelines. It breaks down what the CBA looks like in practice, clarifies the two assessment options, and unpacks the Features of Quality so teachers can make confident, consistent judgements. The session also looks at how reflection, student choice, and inclusive assessment can practically work in the SPHE classroom. You’ll leave with a stronger grasp of expectations, timelines, and practical next steps for supporting students through the SPHE CBA, in line with NCCA guidance.

Learning outcomes:

By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to:

• Understand the purpose, structure, and timing of the Junior Cycle SPHE Classroom-Based Assessment.
• Distinguish clearly between the Portfolio of Learning and the Taking Action for SPHE assessment options.
• Use the Features of Quality to make informed, balanced judgements of student work.
• Support students to engage meaningfully with reflection practices in SPHE.

Bio of Presenter: Denise Dalton

Denise Dalton dedicated six years to her position as a PDST Health and Wellbeing Advisor, where she played a vital role in shaping and delivering CPD in various educational domains. Her expertise extended to Wellbeing in Education, Child Protection, as well as both Junior and Senior Cycle SPHE and RSE.

She played a key role in designing and implementing continuous professional development in both Junior and Senior Cycle SPHE, in area including Mental Health, Substance Use, Relationships and Sexuality and Personal Safety, supporting thousands of Post Primary teachers nationwide in her role as a PDST Advisor.

She has also co-authored the "You've Got This!" series of Junior and Senior Cycle SPHE textbooks.

Denise founded her consultancy "ElevateSPHE," in 2023, offering ongoing support to teachers and school leaders in health and wellbeing.

In addition to her educational work, Denise is a registered Nutritional Therapist who specialises in supporting the physical and mental wellbeing of school leaders, teachers, and SNAs. Through nutrition and lifestyle changes, she helps them gain the energy and mental clarity to manage the demands of their leading and teaching roles while maintaining the stamina to enjoy time with family, without feeling exhausted or burnt out.