Teaching Qualifications

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 May 2015

Wednesday, 6 May 2015

Questions (489)

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

489. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Minister for Education and Skills her views on primary teachers being restricted from gaining their professional probation in special schools, where the full curriculum is taught; if she is aware that at present teachers in special schools or classes may only receive probation on a restricted basis, and if they transfer to a mainstream school they must undergo the whole process again; and her plans to address this matter. [17579/15]

Written answers

Minister for Education and Skills

Under the Teaching Council Act 2001, the Teaching Council is the body with statutory authority for registration of teachers including procedures and criteria for probation.

All primary teachers must complete their probation successfully before they can achieve full registration with the Teaching Council.

The Teaching Council requires teachers' practice to be evaluated in a mainstream class setting where their ability to manage a full class of pupils can be demonstrated. Boards of Management of primary schools deploy teachers within their schools.