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Teacher Training Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 October 2012

Wednesday, 17 October 2012

Questions (134, 135)

Paschal Donohoe

Question:

134. Deputy Paschal Donohoe asked the Minister for Education and Skills if it will be compulsory for teachers and or principals of the current junior certificate curriculum to take part in up-skilling and teacher training for the new curriculum commencing in 2014; if he is considering creating a tender for teacher training colleges to provide up-skilling for teachers for the new junior certificate curriculum; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45341/12]

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Paschal Donohoe

Question:

135. Deputy Paschal Donohoe asked the Minister for Education and Skills if teachers will be incentivised financially or otherwise to seek up-skilling for the teaching of the new junior certificate curriculum; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45342/12]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 134 and 135 together.

The implementation of the Framework for Junior Cycle will enable post-primary schools to provide a quality, inclusive and relevant education with improved learning outcomes for all students, including those with special educational needs.

The framework document indicates that teachers will receive professional development in educational assessment, including processes of moderation, and providing feedback to students. Principals and deputy principals in their leadership role will receive professional development in curriculum leadership, educational assessment including moderation, and change management.

Continuing professional development (CPD) will be provided on a phased basis in line with the roll out of curriculum changes in each subject. The CPD will be provided by Department funded support services in a similar manner to the support for changes in the primary curriculum and the reform of the maths curriculum at post primary level.

Under their professional code, teachers are expected to take responsibility for sustaining and improving the quality of their professional practice by maintaining professional knowledge and understanding and availing of opportunities for professional development. Teachers will not be incentivised financially for attendance at CPD for the revised junior cycle programme. While attendance is not compulsory, the Department strongly encourages principals and teachers to avail of all relevant CPD opportunities.

At present I have no plans to create a tender for the provision of CPD.

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