Teacher recruitment: reflections from Ireland on the current crisis in teacher supply

Teachers are widely recognised as the most powerful determinants of pupil achievement. Those countries considered to have high-performing education systems, such as Finland and Singapore, have prioritised investment in initial teacher education. In the Irish context, teacher education programmes have been high-status, over-subscribed, attracting a very high calibre of entrant. However, in the last two years, a bifurcation in the pattern of teacher recruitment and retention has emerged – while primary level teaching has retained its popularity, high numbers of primary level teachers are taking extended career breaks. In contrast, there is evidence of a reduction in numbers applying for second-level teacher education programmes, as well as a shortage in key subject areas, creating a ‘crisis’ in teacher recruitment and retention. This case study resonates with the international discourse on the topic, and an analysis of issues within a small educational system as is found in Ireland throws into sharp relief new perspectives on the contested international strategies being implemented to increase teacher supply.