The practical implications of implementing the School Placement guidelines are acknowledged. Relevant stakeholders in education need to work together to resolve these issues. I understand that discussions are ongoing between the Teaching Council and providers of Initial Teacher Education as to how a more streamlined approach might be introduced nationally with regard to School Placement. The Teaching Council will continue to promote and encourage the development of a single national system for allocation of school placement positions as a clear indication of a partnership approach between HEIs and schools, which is critical to the success of this essential component of ITE.
While I do not expect to receive a report on the matter, my officials have ongoing contact with the Teaching Council regarding this matter and my Department will support, as appropriate, any developments which facilitate the smooth operation of school placement in terms of logistics and the further development of schools as hosts for school placement.