Details of the new Primary School curriculum will be announced later this morning.
It's the first time in 25 years the syllabus will undergo a significant change.
Foreign languages will be introduced at primary level, as well as science, technology subjects and music and art.
There will be a greater focus on well-being, and more time spent teaching and music, art and drama.
Guidance Counsellor Brian Mooney, says less time will be given to teaching religion.
"Reducing the time allocated to religious education from three and a half hours to two hours. I mean, that's long overdue.
"The Catholic Church and the Dublin Diocese have basically said that faith formation is now going to be part of parish life.
I think that the Catholic Church itself is realizing that having the emphasis in schools is really not bringing them any real benefits".
