Droichead is an integrated professional induction framework for newly qualified teachers.
Droichead has been designed in collaboration with the profession to reflect the importance of induction for new teachers as they are formally welcomed into the most important profession in society. It is grounded in the belief that those best placed to conduct this formal welcome are experienced colleagues who have relevant and in-depth knowledge of teaching and learning in their respective schools.
Droichead recognises the effectiveness of the reconceptualised programmes of initial teacher education and particularly the extended school placement, in the professional preparation of student teachers. It builds on that phase, taking as its starting point the areas for further learning that have been identified by the NQT in collaboration with the HEI as part of the school placement experience. At the same time, it recognises that induction is a distinct phase of the continuum of teacher education, a socialisation process into the teaching profession. This integrated framework includes both school-based and additional professional learning activities to address the needs of teachers as they begin their careers.
DEEPEN (Droichead: Exploring and Eliciting Perspectives, Experiences and Narratives)
In Autumn 2018 the Council commissioned Marino Institute of Education and Trinity College, Dublin to research teachers’ experiences of Droichead, the professional induction framework for teachers. The research explored a range of topics, including the roles and responsibilities of those engaging in, and supporting, the Droichead process, resourcing and supports for the process, the impact of the Droichead on school culture, and the connections between the Droichead process and initial teacher education. It focuses in particular on small schools, Gaelscoileanna, DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools) schools, and special education settings.
Find the full DEEPEN report on the website here.
