Coughlan unveils reforms to improve teaching [Independent.ie]
- Published: 22 July 2010
NEWLY qualified teachers at both primary and post-primary levels will have to undergo a new induction and probationary programme.
The reform, which will be announced today by Education Minister Mary Coughlan, is to be phased in from September.
Aimed at improving teacher quality, it will involve more rigorous assessment and inspection in the nation's classrooms.
Ms Coughlan will outline details of the new programme at the MacGill Summer School in Glenties, Co Donegal.
She believes that Ireland has significant weaknesses in helping newly qualified teachers to take charge of a classroom.
Ms Coughlan says that a teacher's first months and year in a post are critical.
She says that at the moment, induction support for teachers at primary level is limited.
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