Secondary school students in Clare are said to be having their dreams “shattered” due to teacher shortages.
The Association of Secondary Teachers in Ireland has addressed the Oireachtas Education Committee, where it’s claimed the recruitment and retention crisis is threatening the quality of education and equity for young people.
During the sitting of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Education and Youth, the ASTI has referenced new research showing that the teacher supply crisis is impacting on every part of the school system.
The data shows that two thirds of school leaders have reported unfilled vacancies, even after multiple rounds of advertising, with roughly 75% having advertised posts for which no one applied.
The study also reveals that schools are relying on “non-qualified, out-out-field, or casual teachers”, and that many have had to drop certain subject due to a lack of available teachers.
Former ASTI president and teacher at St Joseph’s Kilkee Community College, Geraldine O’Brien says it’s impacting on students, teachers and parents alike.
To address the problems, the ASTI is calling for improved access to full-time permanent employment for new teachers returning from abroad.
Additionally, it’s seeking a shortening of the pay scale and restoration of key allowances, as well as recognition of relevant overseas teaching experience in the pay of teachers returning from other countries.
Chairperson of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Education and Youth, Meelick Fianna Fáil TD Cathal Crowe, says incentives have to be structured in a way that doesn’t encourage teachers to begin their careers abroad.
Listen to the full interview here
