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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 12 Nov 2003

Vol. 574 No. 2

Written Answers. - Teaching Qualifications.

Eamon Ryan

Question:

129 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the opposition to the on-line teacher training course; his reasons for recognising the course despite concerns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26619/03]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Dempsey)

I am aware of concerns which have been outlined in relation to my decision to recognise the qualification of graduate diploma in primary education of Hibernia College for the purpose of employment as a primary teacher. The position is that the Qualifications (Education and Training Act) 1999 provided for the establishment of the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland and the Further and Higher Education and Training Awards Councils for the accreditation of non-university education and training awards at further and higher levels.

The role of the Higher Education and Training Awards Council is to establish policies and criteria for the making of higher education and training awards and the validation of programmes, to determine the standards of knowledge skills and competencies to be acquired by learners for an award, to make or recognise awards and to monitor the quality of programmes, ensuring that providers have procedures for assessment of learners which are fair and consistent.

The National Qualifications Authority of Ireland is responsible for establishing the overall policies and criteria for the framework of qualifications, and the procedures for the performance of the functions of the awards councils.

Hibernia College made an application to HETAC for validation of its graduate diploma in primary education in the format prescribed, setting out the programme objectives and outcomes, structure and outline content, assessment arrangements for learners, and facilities and staff expertise available. A panel of assessors examined the documentation and visited the college. The programme accreditation committee of HETAC considered their report and accredited the programme. A certificate of course approval was issued in July 2003.
As the Minister for Education and Science is the designated authority for recognition of qualifications for purposes of employment for the regulated profession of primary teacher, Hibernia College contacted my Department as to whether its qualification would be recognised for the purpose of employment as a primary teacher.
As the designated authority for recognition of qualifications for purposes of employment for the regulated profession of primary teacher, I have decided to recognise the qualification of graduate diploma in primary education of Hibernia College for the purpose of employment as a primary teacher, provided all of the conditions set by HETAC are met, including those relating to quality assurance.
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