Government welcomes publication of new planning for teachers project
The Government has welcomed the publication of the Strategic Workforce Planning for Teachers in Ireland project.
The publication of the Final Report of the Strategic Workforce Planning for Teachers in Ireland is an important milestone towards strengthening the sustainability of Ireland’s teaching workforce.
The report was launched at an event in Dublin that was attended by teacher unions, school leaders, higher education institutions, the European Commission and UNESCO.
It was delivered by UNESCO in cooperation with the Department of Education and Youth and the European Commission. Funding was provided through the EU’s technical support instrument.
Minister for Education and Youth, Hildegarde Naughton, said: “Teaching is one of the most important professions in our society. Every child and young person deserves access to high-quality teaching, and every teacher deserves to work in a profession that is supported, valued and sustainable.
"This report provides a robust evidence base to help us better understand current and future workforce challenges and opportunities within our education system. It offers valuable recommendations that will support effective teacher workforce planning and help ensure that schools across the country can continue to meet the needs of learners.
"I want to thank UNESCO, the European Commission and all stakeholders who contributed their expertise and experience throughout this important project. Their collaborative approach has helped build a shared understanding of the challenges facing the profession and the actions needed to address them."
Minister Naughton concluded: “Teachers do far more than deliver the curriculum. Through their work they build knowledge, skills and understanding and help to develop important dispositions such as curiosity, creativity, resilience, persistence and empathy. Supporting a strong and sustainable teaching workforce is therefore critical to achieving our ambitions for learners and for society as a whole."