Jim O'Keeffe
Question:17 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans, if any, he has to increase the number of places for students in higher diploma education. [7440/98]
Written Answers. - Higher Diploma in Education.
The higher diploma in education is offered by the education departments of Trinity College, Dublin and the four universities of the National University of Ireland at Cork, Dublin, Galway and Maynooth.
The current quota of 800 for admissions to the higher diploma in education was set on the basis of a recommendation by the Higher Education Authority. The HEA's advice was based on recommendations of a working group composed of representatives of the universities, my Department and the authority. The working group, under the aegis of the Higher Education Authority, was reconvened to undertake an indepth review of future needs for second level teachers. This review is focusing both on total needs and on needs by subject grouping, where feasible. The working group is examining all relevant factors such as pupil numbers, pupil-teacher ratios, teacher retirements and career breaks.
I am also concerned to ensure the quota should not work to the disadvantage of having an adequate supply of teachers capable of teaching the range of subjects provided in schools.
The work of the group is at an advanced stage and I will review the quota for admissions to the higher diploma in education in future years in the light of the recommendations of the working group.