By Róise Collins
SCHOOLS across the country have reported that they are struggling to recruit teachers ahead of September.
Recent research from the Association of Secondary Teachers in Ireland (ASTI) revealed that three quarters of schools did not receive a single application for an advertised teaching post in the recent school year, and that 81 per cent of schools had to employ at least one unqualified teacher.
Padraig Curley is the Donegal representative for the Association of Secondary School Teachers in Ireland (ASTI). He told the Donegal News that there are a number of factors contributing to the recruitment and retention problem.
He explained how the recruitment of new teachers is hindered by a degree programme that he said is far too long and costly.
Between their undergraduate degree and the subsequent master degree in education, teachers spend a minimum of five years at college.
Padraig said the years spent studying is unfortunately not reflected in teachers’ pay scale.
“The rate of pay isn’t enough for this type of graduate, especially in urban centres where rent and cost of living are enormous,” he added.
He believes that in some situations they are better off doing other courses or moving abroad where the conditions are better.
“For many there are more favourable conditions abroad where the pay is higher and accommodation is paid for.
“The response has been to put on a show to say teachers come back to Ireland, but that is not going to work unless the conditions improve,” he said.
In regards to the retention of current teachers Padraig said that the lack of promotion in the job is a huge problem.
“There is an AP1 and AP2 promotion that only one tenth of people get. So for approximately 90 per cent there is no promotion,” he said.
On top of this there is also an increasing demand and accountability on teachers causing burnout.
“There is also a lot of pressure to allow students freedom to develop as individuals yet they are involved in a massive point race.
“There is huge accountability in teaching in terms of what society and parents demand as well as what the school and management demand.
“It is a difficult balancing act and some have found that there are easier jobs out there,” he added.
Padraig said the ASTI has called for greater incentives to be offered to teaching graduates to attract more people to work in the area.
They have also called that the promotion system has to be looked at to improve retention.
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