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MP wants 'Montessori' recognised as 3rd level qualification in Six Counties
Published: 2 August, 2007
West Tyrone Sinn Féin MP has written to Education Minister Caitríona Ruane
and Employment and Learning Minister Reg Empey seeking that the
world-renowned "Montessori" method of education be recognised as a 3rd level
degree qualification in the six counties
He said,
"I have written to both Ministers on behalf of a significant number of
educational practitioners, providers and parents who have lobbied me in
respect of the Montessori Education qualification.
"The Montessori method, which derived from the work of Maria Montessori, is
a internationally recognised means to educate children and adults of all
ages. Unlike conventional educational methods, the Montessori approach
utilises all of the senses in the educational process - in particular touch.
"The Montessori teaching qualification is delivered by St Nicholas'
Montessori College in Dun Laoghaire and the course is franchised to other
colleges throughout the country. One of the local institutes which delivers
the course is Omagh College in Co. Tyrone.
"Montessori schools are established throughout the world and people are more
and more considering this method.
"However, in Ireland there exists a frustrating anomaly concerning the
Montessori qualification. In the North, the Department of Education and the
Department of Education and Learning do not accept or recognise this course
as a viable 3rd level qualification.
"This has a detrimental effect for student's professional development. In
particular, it makes them ineligible for supply ('sub') teaching posts in
Primary schools North of the border and leaves them ineligible to deliver
courses at 3rd level. This has created a 'brain drain' where many of our
qualified professionals are forced to seek work in the south or further
afield.
"In addition to this, the position of DE and DEL in the North has had the
effect of thwarting the growth of Montessori schools and is preventing
parents and children from choosing this internationally acclaimed method of
education.
"It also seems incredible that throughout the world, including Europe,
Australia and America, the Montessori qualification is perfectly acceptable,
yet in the north of Ireland and in Britain, this is not the case.
"I have now asked both Ministers to take steps to address this anomaly which
is depriving our teaching professionals and children of the right to deliver
and avail of this means of education. ENDS
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