Registration is a mark of professional recognition as a teacher. It ensures that standards of entry to the profession are maintained.
In Ireland, only teachers who have met the registration requirements of the Teaching Council are allowed to teach in State-recognised Primary and Post-Primary schools* and have their salaries paid from State funds**.
The Minister for Education and Skills, in accordance with Section 24 of the Education Act 1998, directs that school authorities, as employers, ensure that teachers proposed for appointment to teaching posts for which a salary grant is being sought, must be:
- Registered with the Teaching Council in accordance with Section 31 of the Teaching Council Act, 2001
- Have qualifications appropriate to the sector and suitable to the posts for which they are proposed.
The Department of Education and Skills have issued circular letters regarding teacher recruitment and Garda vetting. To download these circulars please click on the relevant link below:
Registration as a teacher at Primary or Post-Primary level (including further education) is governed by Section 31(5) of the Teaching Council Act, 2001 and the Teaching Council [Registration] Regulations 2009.
The application process involves submitting an application form, together with transcripts, proof of identity, evidence of character, other documentary evidence and the application fee. Each application is assessed according to set criteria regarding qualifications and teaching experience, as well as evidence of character. Registration may be granted in full or with conditions, or refused.
If they wish, applicants may have the outcome of their registration process reviewed.
*In accordance with Section 10 of the Education Act, 1998
**The requirement to be registered will be mandatory under the terms of Section 30 the Teaching Council Act, 2001 when commenced by the Minister for Education and Skills.