Education chiefs say they have no problems recruiting teachers for primary schools in the island.

The Department of Education and Children does not provide initial training for primary teachers, but it has not ruled out a return of the Manx-qualified teacher status scheme.

Julie Edge (LibVannin, Onchan) asked Education Minister Graham Cregeen what teacher training opportunities were available within primary and secondary schools, along with University College Isle of Man.

The minister revealed to Tynwald: ’Because there has been little difficulty in recruiting primary teachers to the Isle of Man, there is currently no initial teacher training route available on-island.

’Local students typically complete teacher training through a university or training school in England or other jurisdiction, and then secure a teaching post on-island.

’Following this, they are able to complete their newly qualified teacher induction year in island schools.’

The department offers ’two main pathways’ to support qualification of secondary school teachers in what he described as ’difficult-to-recruit’ subjects. These were, firstly, the CertEd or FAHE, or the CertEd Post14 Education at UCM, and, secondly, the award of QTLS, an assessment-only route through university that leads to the award of qualified teacher status.

He added: ’In the past, a Post-Graduate Certificate in Education for primary schools has been offered at University College Isle of Man, resulting in Manx-qualified teacher status.

’This qualification is not necessarily portable to other jurisdictions and could be an option for consideration.’

He admitted the non-transferable nature of the Manx-qualified teacher status, however, could be an obstacle for some wanting a career in teaching.