A degree in physical education and English would normally entitle the holder to sec ondary teacher recognition following assessment by the Registration Council for Secondary Teachers. This allows the holders to be appointed to full time positions in second level schools.
However, the Department will grant restricted recognition to qualified second level teachers to teach in a permanent capacity in special schools, where a proportion of the pupils attending the school are of post primary age – 12 years or older – and where second level programmes are being provided by the school. This recognition applies to all suitably qualified second level teachers and not just to holders of a bachelor of arts and higher diploma. In addition, secondary qualified teachers holding temporary or substitute posts at primary level are being paid at the fully trained rates.
Further details in relation to the recognition of teaching qualifications for the purpose of teaching in national schools are contained in departmental circular 25/00. I have asked my officials to send a copy to the Deputy.