Vol. 468 No. 4
502 Mrs. O'Rourke asked the Minister for Education the arrangements, if any, in place each year by the primary teacher training colleges in respect of the intake of mature students; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15586/96]
A separate competition to enable mature students (i.e. those 23 years or over) to secure entry to the three year Bachelor of Education degree course is held annually in colleges of education. Selection is by means of a competitive interview and oral Irish test.
The number of places available for mature students is determined in the light of the overall approved intake to the colleges of education in eary year.
In addition, the special post-graduate course for the training of teachers beginning in January 1997 will also afford an opportunity for mature students, who meet the conditions, to train as primary teachers.
