Teachers, things can only improve

Despite all the doom and gloom around us our children will still need to be educated and "students should not be too quick to abandon the profession, because of the current shortage of jobs." So says the article in the Irish Independent.

While the start of the article would make you wonder why anyone would go into education as a career following the budget it does go on to say...

Demographic trends suggest that more teachers will be needed in Ireland in the coming years.

The number of school pupils in Ireland is expected to grow by more than 50,000 over the next five years, and unless class sizes are increased dramatically, staff will have to be hired to teach them.

Moira Leyden, the assistant general secretary of ASTI, says: "We are very concerned about the increase in pupil-teacher ratios, and the fact that there will be job losses.

"The long-term trend is an increase in population over the next five or six years, and ultimately there will have to be jobs for teachers coming on stream so that these children can be taught. There are still plans to open new schools, and these will need teachers.''

In the second-level sector, employment prospects also vary according to subject areas.

Those who specialise in English, history and business studies are finding it much tougher than those with degrees in maths and Irish. Aspiring teachers can also improve their chances of securing steady work when they are on placement by showing enthusiasm and dedication, and becoming involved in the school's extra-curricular activities.

Ultimately, the trainee who directs the school play or coaches two hurling teams will be seen as a greater asset to a school.

The full article can be read here