How to become a certified teacher in Ireland

To become a certified teacher in Ireland, there are several steps that need to be taken. Firstly, one must obtain a recognized teaching qualification from an accredited institution. This can be a Bachelor of Education degree or a Postgraduate Diploma in Education. These courses typically take four years to complete and involve both theoretical and practical components, including classroom placements.

Once the teaching qualification has been obtained, the next step is to register with the Teaching Council of Ireland. This is a statutory body responsible for the regulation of the teaching profession in Ireland. To register, one must provide evidence of their teaching qualification, as well as proof of their fitness to teach, which includes a Garda vetting check and a declaration of health.

After registration, teachers must engage in continuous professional development (CPD) to maintain their registration. This involves completing a minimum of 20 hours of CPD each year, which can include attending courses, workshops, and conferences, as well as engaging in self-directed learning.

Finally, to become a fully qualified teacher in Ireland, one must complete a probationary period of two years. During this time, teachers are assigned a mentor and must demonstrate their competence in the classroom. At the end of the probationary period, teachers are assessed by the Teaching Council and, if successful, are granted full registration as a qualified teacher in Ireland.