Sheila Terry (Fine Gael)

I speak in defence of schoolteachers in the wake of the critical report on the performance of new teachers. This report is unfair. These young teachers are straight out of college and they should be given time before undergoing this type of assessment. As Senator Browne suggested, we must review teacher training practices, with a particular emphasis on the practical component of training. Theory is all very well but one must put that theory into practice. An increased element of practical training, whereby young trainees would spend more time in classrooms, would be beneficial.

We have experience in this regard in the training of nurses. I have heard many older, experienced nurses say that young nurses trained by way of the new degree course and who do not spend as much time gaining practical experience on the ward are not equipped with the same abilities as their predecessors.