Simon Harris
Question:72. Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will consider mandatory training for teachers assigned to ASD units in national schools. [7046/14]
View answerWednesday, 12 February 2014
Questions (72)
Written answers
Under the Teaching Council Act 2001, the Teaching Council is the body with statutory regulatory authority for the professional registration of teachers. The Council sets standards of entry to the profession and accredits initial teacher education programmes. I am satisfied that primary teachers are qualified to teach in a wide range of school environments including ASD units. In the Education (Amendment) Act 2012, the Teaching Council Act 2001 was amended to enable the Council to regulate for conditions for renewal of teacher registration including attendance at programmes of continuing education and training. When Section 39 is commenced, the Council will have authority to review and accredit programmes providing continuing training and professional development for teachers.
My Department currently provides for a comprehensive system of continuing professional development (CPD) for teachers in the area of special educational needs. The Special Education Support Service (SESS) provides evidence based support for teachers of pupils across a wide range of special educational needs including ASD having regard to best practice. A range of specialist programmes are available nationally. Practice in this area continues to develop and evolve as new research becomes available. The National Council for Special Education has a formal role under Section 20.1(j) of EPSEN to advise the Minister 'in relation to any matter relating to the education of children and others with disabilities'. I have requested the NCSE to prepare Policy Advice on the Educational Provision for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. The NCSE have commissioned research which will inform the advice. I expect that the NCSE final report will reflect the broadest possible range of views and provide recommendations which will assist the development of policy for future years.