A chara, – I am part of a new generation of secondary teachers. We simply get passed from one school to another, with no chance of a permanent position. I have taught in 11 different schools in eight years. We are simply fillers and stopgaps for career breaks and maternity leaves. There is no chance of progression.
It does cause concern when I read that a high number of retired teachers are still teaching in secondary schools this year. This leaves newly qualified teachers with no opportunity to teach and develop their careers.
While I am forced to pay a fee to the Teaching Council of Ireland each year, they do nothing to look into this farce, hence the widespread view that the only thing they do for teachers is ask for their fee. The current system must be altered and a proper chance given to a new generation. – Is mise,
JAMES O’REILLY,
Mount Merrion,
Co Dublin.