Limits on trainee teachers’ subject choices

Colleges and universities may face stricter controls on which subjects teachers will be trained for, due to shortages being faced by schools.

Department of Education secretary general Seán Ó Foghlú told private third- level college leaders that Education Minister Ruairi Quinn wants the State to be able to identify shortages of teachers in subject areas — a move which could help with more effective regulation of teacher supply.

The possibilities are being explored by the department, with a view to ensuring an adequate supply of teachers with the requisite skills.