How to Become a Secondary Teacher in Ireland

Secondary teachers in Ireland work in one of the nearly 800 state and independent second-level schools. They provide instruction for students between the ages of 11 and 16. In some instances, and while working with schools that have six forms, teachers may instruct students as old in 19. Secondary teachers specialize in teaching one to two subjects and prepare students for examinations such as the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) and General Certificate of Education (GCE) level A tests. To become a secondary teacher in Ireland you must complete required training and gain necessary qualifications such as Qualified Teacher Status.

Enroll in a university such as National University of Ireland, Trinity College, the University of Limerick or Dublin City University. Complete your studies and gain a primary degree in one or two subjects. You can also earn a primary degree from completing studies at a specialty college approved by the National Council for Education Awards (NCEA). You can also attend the Dublin Institute of Technology or one of the regional technical colleges to earn your primary degree. Study at the college or university that offers the educational tract you are interested in teaching in. For example, if you want to teach art, make sure that the university you attend offers a primary art degree.

Complete the one-year Higher Diploma in Education training. Enroll at one of the government-approved education departments offered by the Trinity College of Dublin. Remember that you can also complete the one-year training at one of the four universities of the National University of Ireland in Cork, Dublin, Galway or Maynooth. Refer to the "Department of Education and Science" link in the Resources section to find the school websites and contact information. Contact The Higher Diploma in Education (NUI) at PO Box 184, Galway, and request an application pack and handbook to apply for your diploma.

Schedule to take the Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) skills tests from the Training and Development Agency for Schools (TDA). Pass the three skills tests including the numeracy, literacy and information and communication technology (ICT) tracts. Keep in mind that the TDA advises that all qualified teachers must pass the skills tests. Refer to the "QTS Skills Tests" link in the Resources section to review test details and practice materials.

Pass a background check. Follow up with the Department of Education and Science if you do not receive a request to complete a background check after you have earned Qualified Teacher Status. Complete the background-check application form provided by the Criminal Records Bureau, which is the executive agency of the Home Office. Call the bureau's help line at 0870-90-90-844 should you have questions about completing the application. Fill out the form using black ink. Complete all sections of the application including the addresses of the last places where you have lived over the past five years.

Register with the Teaching Council. Contact the council (see Resources) to receive an application. Complete and submit your post-primary application after you have met the necessary teaching requirements. Include transcripts, proof of your identity, evidence of character and applicable fees.

Join organizations and job boards such as the Association of Secondary Teachers Ireland, Careers Advice, Teaching Jobs and the Teachers Union of Ireland. Learn about vacant teaching positions, changes in the industry and conferences and seminars you can attend to network with colleagues and remain current in your field. You can also contact schools directly and submit a cover letter and your resume to apply for jobs.