Training of maths and science teachers 'must improve'

The organisation representing the engineering profession in Ireland today said the training of maths and science teachers must be improved to boost the standard of teaching in these subjects,

Speaking following Leaving Certificate results that showed the ongoing low numbers studying these subjects, director general of Engineers Ireland John Power called for an immediate government move on the issue.

"These latest Leaving Cert figures once again indicate that there is another decrease in the numbers studying honours maths and the grades obtained in the physical science subjects.

"Engineers Ireland has already highlighted the direct link between the decreasing numbers studying these subjects and the shortage of engineers entering Irish industry.

"There needs to be a total overhaul of how maths and science is taught in secondary school."

Mr Power said the creation of some 4,700 jobs had been announced in the so-called 'green economy' in the last four months alone, but the filling of these vacancies required a supply of engineering graduates with the right skills.