Vol. 515 No. 1
212 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will consider positively a request from a person (details supplied) in Dublin 6W for approval to participate in the graduate diploma in education, primary teaching course; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5380/00]
As part of the minimum academic requirements specified by my Department for entry to primary teaching training all candidates, including school leavers, mature students and university graduates, must have a minimum of a grade C, ordinary level, or grade D, higher level, in English in the leaving certificate or an approved equivalent. My Department considers it to be the minimum standard in English necessary for students entering a teacher training course which will equip them to teach English to pupils at all levels of the primary school.
While there no plans to amend this requirement, requirements in this area are kept under review by my Department in consultation with the authorities of the colleges of education.
I am sure that the Deputy will appreciate that I cannot make exceptions to the entry requirements in individual cases.
