Hanafin sparks debate over teacher training

EDUCATION Minister Mary Hanafin has opened a major debate on teacher training by calling for reserved places for science graduates and less focus on academic subjects for future primary teachers.

She said there are not enough teachers in some second-level subjects, including languages, Irish and maths, while there is an over-supply in other areas.

“An obvious area of scarcity, and one of great concern to the Government given its potential impact on our economic future, is the lack of science graduates going into teaching,” Ms Hanafin said.