Jackie Cahill
Ceist:284. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Education what plans the Department has to subsidise the Gaeltacht fees for teaching students; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16024/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 16 April 2024
Ceisteanna (284)
Freagraí scríofa
There are four state-funded higher education institutions (HEIs) providing primary initial teacher education (ITE) and one independent private provider of primary ITE.
The current requirements for Gaeltacht Learning Periods (GLPs) for primary Initial Teacher Education (ITE) programmes takes the form of 2 x 2 week placements, which are outlined in the Teaching Council’s Céim: Standards for Initial Teacher Education.
Budget 2020 provided for the re-instatement of the grant to cover the full cost of the Gaeltacht Learning Periods (GLPs) for undergraduate and post-graduate students in State-funded primary ITE programmes, with effect from the 2020/2021 academic year. The grant was previously funded by my Department up to the 2012/2013 academic year, when it was ceased due to financial constraints. The rate of student grant for 2024 has been set at an average of €815. This will cover the cost of the undertaking the fortnightly course in 2024. This grant will be made available for undergraduate and post-graduate students in State-funded primary Initial Teacher Education (ITE) programmes.