Tuition Fees Paid for Future Teachers in Northern Ireland
Aspiring teachers in Northern Ireland who plan to teach in Irish language schools or specialize in maths, science, or technology subjects will have their tuition fees covered. The initiative aims to address critical teacher shortages in these areas.
Financial Support for Student Teachers
In addition to tuition fee coverage, some students will receive £1,000 per month to assist with their living expenses during their studies. This financial support is designed to encourage more individuals to pursue careers in these high-demand teaching fields.
Addressing Teacher Shortages
The move is intended to alleviate the shortage of teachers in subjects like maths, chemistry, physics, technology, computing, and design, as well as in Irish medium education. The Department of Education hopes this initiative will attract more qualified candidates to fill these crucial roles.
Commitment to Teaching in Northern Ireland
Students who benefit from these bursaries are required to commit to teaching in schools across Northern Ireland for a minimum of two years after they graduate. This ensures that the investment directly benefits the local education system.
Bursary Details Announced by Education Minister
The bursaries were announced by Education Minister Paul Givan. This is the first scheme of its kind implemented in Northern Ireland.
Specific Course Funding
Students enrolling in a four-year undergraduate education degree in maths and technology and design will have their tuition fees paid for the entire duration of their course, amounting to approximately £5,000 per year or £20,000 in total.
Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) Support
Those pursuing a one-year Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in Irish medium education, maths, chemistry, physics, information technology, or technology and design will have their tuition fees covered and receive a £12,000 bursary towards living costs, totaling more than £17,000 for their year of study. A PGCE enables graduates to teach.
Implementation Timeline
The new financial support measures are scheduled to take effect in September 2026.
Recruitment Challenges and Strategic Investment
Many schools in Northern Ireland have reported difficulties in recruiting teachers in maths, science, and technology. The shortage of Irish medium teachers at the secondary level has been repeatedly highlighted. Minister Givan emphasized that the bursaries represent a "strategic investment in our education system and economy" that will safeguard science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) subjects.
