Almost half of second-level maths teachers are not qualified in the subject, it has been revealed.

A report published by the National Centre for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching and Learning at the University of Limerick found that 48 per cent of those teaching the subject do not have a proper qualification.

It was found that the majority of maths teachers hold degrees in business studies and science.

Dr Ailish Hannigan, one of the co-authors of the reports, said there is a "significant divide between students who are taught by qualified mathematics teachers and those who are taught by out-of-field teachers of mathematics, with younger and weaker students most often taught by out-of-field teachers".

The Association of Secondary Teachers Ireland revealed last year that dozens of schools have been forced to cut back on the number of science and higher level maths classes they offer as a result of education spending reductions.

Written by Donal Walsh

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