Further education overhaul will require 12 month teacher provision

Some teachers may be forced to work to a 12-month year schedule as part of plans to overhaul the further education system.

Education Minister Ruairi Quinn revealed the plan yesterday, confirming some courses will soon operate on a year-round basis instead of a September to May cycle. Affected teachers will still work nine months a year, but will be asked to take their time off at a different point in the calendar.

The Labour TD said the policy switch is linked to the imminent replacement of Fás with Solas, which is due to take place over the coming weeks.