Principals refuse to supervise classes when cover is withdrawn

VOCATIONAL school principals will not spend their time minding classes that require supervision because of the Government’s decision to cut back on payments for substitute teachers, a conference has heard.

Kevin O’Meara, president of Principals and Deputy Principals (PDA) which represents managers in 240 vocational schools and community colleges, said the removal of substitution cover for teachers absent on school business or suffering illness from January will have a catastrophic effect on the day-to-day running of schools.

“Huge practical difficulties will arise from this decision, which will impact on field trips, participation in inter-schools games and sporting activities, outdoor education programmes and a host of extra-curricular activities,” he said.