The upskilling of maths teachers is essential for future graduates

I, as the Fine Gael spokesperson for jobs, research and innovation in the Seanad would like to welcome the second intake of Maths teachers for the Professional Diploma in Maths for Teaching.

The programme is aimed at improving the skills of “out-of-field” maths teachers at post-primary level, and is provided through a consortium led by the National Centre for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching & Learning based in the University of Limerick.

I am delighted that the second intake of this programme is now underway. In the report ‘A review of the ICT skills demand in Ireland’ I highlighted the need for teachers to be specifically up skilled and trained in the area of maths in order to boost student’s interest and level of knowledge in maths.

The government is committed to building a well educated work force particularly to meet the needs of the flourishing ICT sector which is crying out for graduates with mathematical skills.

Funding of up to 2 million has been made available for this course. This demonstrates the enthusiasm this government has to supporting the teaching of maths in post primary schools.

Four hundred places are available this year and the two year course is part time.

I hope that there will be significant interest in this course which will strive to increase teacher’s confidence, skill-set and general knowledge of mathematics.