Primary School Teaching (Mature Student)

A Duck

I'm 23 (qualify as a mature student) and want to become a primary school teacher. My Leaving Cert results are quite poor though and from what I've seen online is that I need minimum three C3's one of which must be in Irish, and at least an Ordinary C3 in English and Ordinary D3 in Maths. I have the Maths and English sorted but don't have any Higher level C3's so I presume I'd have to resit Irish along with two other subjects (I think it said you can combine different Leaving Cert years).
Basically I'm wondering what would be a good way to go about repeating three Leaving Cert subjects bearing in mind that I'll require most attention towards Irish as I recon I would cope well enough with the other two subjects.
Also I'm a qualified Electrician... Could I use this to replace repeating two Higher level Leaving Cert subjects (I realize that I'd still need to repeat Irish)
Any input is greatly appreciated!
Thanks

Dionysus

A Duck wrote: »

I'm 23 (qualify as a mature student) and want to become a primary school teacher. My Leaving Cert results are quite poor though and from what I've seen online is that I need minimum three C3's one of which must be in Irish, and at least an Ordinary C3 in English and Ordinary D3 in Maths. I have the Maths and English sorted but don't have any Higher level C3's so I presume I'd have to resit Irish along with two other subjects (I think it said you can combine different Leaving Cert years).
Basically I'm wondering what would be a good way to go about repeating three Leaving Cert subjects bearing in mind that I'll require most attention towards Irish as I recon I would cope well enough with the other two subjects.
Also I'm a qualified Electrician... Could I use this to replace repeating two Higher level Leaving Cert subjects (I realize that I'd still need to repeat Irish)
Any input is greatly appreciated!
Thanks

Regarding your Irish qualification, it may perhaps be worth doing the Dioplóma sa Ghaeilge Fheidhmeach in UCD. A basic pass in this is accepted in lieu of Leaving Cert Honours Irish:

'In the case of Irish, a Grade C in the Matriculation Examination (which existed up to 1992) will also be accepted in lieu of the Leaving Certificate Examination/GCE/GCSE requirement. In addition, the Dioplóma sa Ghaeilge from NUI Maynooth, the Diploma in Arts (Applied Irish) from University College Cork, the Dioplóma sa Ghaeilge Fheidhmeach from UCD, Dioplóma sa Ghaeilge, Level C1, NUIG and the Diploma in Irish at the University of Ulster, are accepted as satisfying the Leaving Certificate Examination/GCE/GCSE requirement.' (http://www.spd.dcu.ie/MAIN/administration/admissions/documents/wedsitePGDE2009entryrequirementsFinal.pdf)

It is, however, done over a two-year period on a part-time basis (at night). This suited me, but obviously is not for everybody. The teaching techniques are superb and I couldn't recommend it highly enough. The emphasis is on spoken Irish and all the classes are designed to achieve that end. When finished, you can start in the second year of the BA in Modern Irish degree, an option you will not have if you just resit the Leaving.

Go n-éirí an t-ádh leat!

A Duck

Looks like a good way of doing it but would i still need to do two higher level leaving cert subjects too make up the other two C3 grades?

rainbowtrout

Would you consider doing subjects like physics or engineering, or technology? then at least you would be able to put some of your knowledge as an electrician to use instead of starting a subject from scratch

A Duck

rainbowtrout wrote: »

Would you consider doing subjects like physics or engineering, or technology? then at least you would be able to put some of your knowledge as an electrician to use instead of starting a subject from scratch

Yea that sounds like a good idea. Have been looking at the possibility of doing it in the UK as a mature student but as far as I can see I'd still have to gain three Higher Level C3's.
I wonder if the best option would be to resit the leaving cert doing six subjects and try gain a place through the CAO system. Basically I'm looking for the quickest route.
I wish I knew what I wanted to do while I was in school. The thought of repeating the Leaving Cert is quite daunting, but I'm sure I could do quite well if I apply myself properly this time :P
Thanks for the reply

BoozyBabe

I'm just sorting myself out for my 3rd week of teaching practice at the mo.
I hadn't stepped foot in a classroom since I was at school, & I have to say I'm absolutely loving it. I'm so glad I made the decision I did!

I worked in IT for 8 years, & grew V tired of it. The same 'you know what', different day.

Last year I repeated my LC, hons Irish, & I got a B2. I'd spent the previous year brushing up, as my Irish was absolutely terrible. I couldn't even remember the basic things!

So, it IS V doable. I think you should do as rainbowtrout suggested, as then the other 2 subjects shouldn't take up too much of your time, & you can concentrate on Irish, & who knows, in a few years it could be you sitting here burried under folders & resources, writing up what seems like your billionth plan!!
But, it's SO worth it.
Best of luck with it.

A Duck

Dionysus wrote: »

Regarding your Irish qualification, it may perhaps be worth doing the Dioplóma sa Ghaeilge Fheidhmeach in UCD. A basic pass in this is accepted in lieu of Leaving Cert Honours Irish:

'In the case of Irish, a Grade C in the Matriculation Examination (which existed up to 1992) will also be accepted in lieu of the Leaving Certificate Examination/GCE/GCSE requirement. In addition, the Dioplóma sa Ghaeilge from NUI Maynooth, the Diploma in Arts (Applied Irish) from University College Cork, the Dioplóma sa Ghaeilge Fheidhmeach from UCD, Dioplóma sa Ghaeilge, Level C1, NUIG and the Diploma in Irish at the University of Ulster, are accepted as satisfying the Leaving Certificate Examination/GCE/GCSE requirement.' (http://www.spd.dcu.ie/MAIN/administration/admissions/documents/wedsitePGDE2009entryrequirementsFinal.pdf)

It is, however, done over a two-year period on a part-time basis (at night). This suited me, but obviously is not for everybody. The teaching techniques are superb and I couldn't recommend it highly enough. The emphasis is on spoken Irish and all the classes are designed to achieve that end. When finished, you can start in the second year of the BA in Modern Irish degree, an option you will not have if you just resit the Leaving.

Go n-éirí an t-ádh leat!

Thanks for that, just wandering though if anyone can do this course or are there specific requirements? I tried to read about it but all the information I could find was in Irish :P

0141607

BoozyBabe wrote: »

I'm just sorting myself out for my 3rd week of teaching practice at the mo.
I hadn't stepped foot in a classroom since I was at school, & I have to say I'm absolutely loving it. I'm so glad I made the decision I did!

I worked in IT for 8 years, & grew V tired of it. The same 'you know what', different day.

Last year I repeated my LC, hons Irish, & I got a B2. I'd spent the previous year brushing up, as my Irish was absolutely terrible. I couldn't even remember the basic things!

So, it IS V doable. I think you should do as rainbowtrout suggested, as then the other 2 subjects shouldn't take up too much of your time, & you can concentrate on Irish, & who knows, in a few years it could be you sitting here burried under folders & resources, writing up what seems like your billionth plan!!
But, it's SO worth it.
Best of luck with it.

sorry to but in but your support for a complete stranger has really given me some positivity. im currently considering repeating my irish to go bk next year 2010 to do primary teaching but im v scared at the whole lot im 26 am i bit late in the game to go back, do you mind me askin what age you were when you went bk to qualify and how u did it too cheers

gaeilgegrinds

It's never too late. The only thing you NEED to succeed is the right attitude. With that it's never ever too late.

0141607

your right. thanks a mill

In my opinion

0141607 wrote: »

sorry to but in but your support for a complete stranger has really given me some positivity. im currently considering repeating my irish to go bk next year 2010 to do primary teaching but im v scared at the whole lot im 26 am i bit late in the game to go back, do you mind me askin what age you were when you went bk to qualify and how u did it too cheers

Just turned 31 when I started. And it actually was like a trip to Tir na nÓg.

Only snag is paying extra contributions to get a descent pension when I turn 66!! Which will not be long coming! LOL.

0141607

In my opinion wrote: »

Just turned 31 when I started. And it actually was like a trip to Tir na nÓg.

Only snag is paying extra contributions to get a descent pension when I turn 66!! Which will not be long coming! LOL.

Did you get to hold onto the pension you had already accumilated?
im starting to get scared, the thoughts of leaving my job and my comfort zone too, but it really is what i want! im just sorry i didnt do it sooner

messygirl

hi all, check out educationposts.ie forums for loads of support, just completed my lc irish two weeks ago and it was really tough but if its what you want do it! there are loads of notes on the internet too and advice on the forum, loads of threads dedicated to mature students redoing irish, interview tips, etc,the forum was a godsend because no one can really understand what you are going through unless they have done it too, the amount of times i heard "sure its only one subject" could have screamed!

a duck check out the options in scotland and wales, i think in scotland you just need c3s in honours or pass english maths and science (i think!)
all english courses look for science

BoozyBabe

0141607 wrote: »

sorry to but in but your support for a complete stranger has really given me some positivity. im currently considering repeating my irish to go bk next year 2010 to do primary teaching but im v scared at the whole lot im 26 am i bit late in the game to go back, do you mind me askin what age you were when you went bk to qualify and how u did it too cheers

Sorry, only seeing this now!!
I'm 29, so older than you, but by no means near the oldest in the class.
I went to an Irish class every Sat in Navan to repeat the Irish LC.
I think that's what you were asking, as I'm only doing Hibernia 4 months now, so not qualified in that yet.

I think someone else mentioned www.educationposts.ie
It's a really great site. Make sure to check it out. It has been my lifeline this past few years.
Best of luck with it.
Its been the best decision I've ever made I think.
I'm now unemployed. It's not as scary as it seems. Well, if you're lazy like me anyway!!!

jellymonster

i'm 24 and i've decided to go back to do teaching but i need to repeat the Irish LC because i got a D1 in honours, it's such a pain in the arse!! Does anyone know if theres anywhere in Wicklow/South Dublin that has a course or anything to help me along?

Libra 2010

Hi All,

Can anyone give me any advice on whats best to do? - Resit my Leaving Certificate Irish or to do the Diploma sa Ghaeilge course in NUIG?

I have a Business Degree but I want Primary School Teaching and need to meet the Irish Requirement.

Iv heard the NUIG course is good but its 2 years part time. LC would only be 1 year and therefore a faster route! Can anyone recommend??

Also has anyone studied Primary Teaching in England? Whats the story on courses overthere? Iv heard that you can do the Primary Teaching course overthere and then come home to Ireland and do an exam to get your Irish?

Rosita

Libra 2010 wrote: »

Hi All,

Can anyone give me any advice on whats best to do? - Resit my Leaving Certificate Irish or to do the Diploma sa Ghaeilge course in NUIG?

Iv heard the NUIG course is good but its 2 years part time. LC would only be 1 year and therefore a faster route! Can anyone recommend??

The NUIG course is probably quite good - this course is offered in other universities too and as an under-graduate I came across some people in UCD who were doing it and they were of a very good standard.

I would say the Leaving Cert is always the easier route. It's a straight-forward fairly predictable exam that rewards graft and application above anything else. Consider that many 17/18 year olds get through it and have 6/7 other subjects to contend with and you'll realise how doable it is. Bear in mind that there is an industry in the area of Leaving Cert notes and study aids and taht's quite a support to be able to call on.

The possible downside of the Leaving Cert is that you'll probably be ploughing a lone furrow unless you can manage to locate classes somewhere and it might be tricky getting Irish classes specifically aiming at the Leaving Cert -you could get some grinds of course. And you will need to be fairly motivated to keep it going. But I would always advise someone to do the Leaving Cert rather than the Diploma purely for the purposes of making the cut for Primary Teaching as it's quicker and easier, not to mention cheaper.

That said, you would undoubtedly have a much stronger base of Irish after the Diploma.

Libra 2010

Rosita wrote: »

The NUIG course is probably quite good - this course is offered in other universities too and as an under-graduate I came across some people in UCD who were doing it and they were of a very good standard.

I would say the Leaving Cert is always the easier route. It's a straight-forward fairly predictable exam that rewards graft and application above anything else. Consider that many 17/18 year olds get through it and have 6/7 other subjects to contend with and you'll realise how doable it is. Bear in mind that there is an industry in the area of Leaving Cert notes and study aids and taht's quite a support to be able to call on.

The possible downside of the Leaving Cert is that you'll probably be ploughing a lone furrow unless you can manage to locate classes somewhere and it might be tricky getting Irish classes specifically aiming at the Leaving Cert -you could get some grinds of course. And you will need to be fairly motivated to keep it going. But I would always advise someone to do the Leaving Cert rather than the Diploma purely for the purposes of making the cut for Primary Teaching as it's quicker and easier, not to mention cheaper.

That said, you would undoubtedly have a much stronger base of Irish after the Diploma.

Mmm ur prob right. Im leaning a little more towards the LC now. Do you know how you even do the repeat exam? Do you just prepare yourself for the exam? Do you get any help from teachers? I would just cry if I were to repeat it and still not get the required grade.

aimsirbia

hello, it's uplifting to hear of the success stories, with enough drive and committment it sounds as though anything is possible........until the little voice in my head cries out but you only got a c3 on a pass paper 10yrs ago. i'm very confused though i know of a group class for repeats once a week and private grinds i can start it seems a bit like i'm deluding myself somewhat as to what's achievable in nine mths. don't wanna sound negative as i'm usually upbeat will give anything a go just need some advice as to go for the l.c or start the diploma in u.c.c and thereby spread it out for myself. ta in advance

Tigerandahalf

If it's what you really want to do then go ahead. However, do consider your pension. Pensions for public servants from 2011 will be far from what people enjoyed in recent times. The people who retired in the last 5 years have done very well. People retiring, who enter the system after 2011, will retire on a pension based on average salary not final salary. I still don't think the vast majority of young incoming public seravnts realise the effects of this. Let's say you retired last year on a salary of 60,000. Your pension would be 30,000. However from 2011 your pension would be based on average salary. This will mean that people will be down 4/5 grand on their pensions per year (from my calculations..correct me if Im wrong!). The unions unfortunately have sold out on young teachers. You have to work 40 years to get a full pension. I'm only teaching a couple of years but whatever people say, it is hard work and I do wonder how I will cope in years to come. The curriculum these days is placing increasing pressure on the teacher what with group work and an expectation to do on the spot assessment and recording of same. It will burn out teachers.
Anyway despite my comments above if you really want to do it go for it. The holidays are still a great incentive to get into teaching, gives you a great life balance. There's good satisfaction in the job as well.