There are considerable weaknesses in the teaching of Irish and maths at schools across the country. 

This is according to the Chief Inspector's Report 2010-12, which has been compiled as a result of visits to 93 per cent of Irish primary and post-primary schools during this period.

Inspectors discovered that less than one-quarter (24 per cent) of Irish lessons in primary schools were deemed to be delivered at a less than satisfactory level.

Furthermore, the quality of teaching was labelled "satisfactory or better" in just 72 per cent of Irish lessons in post-primary schools, with the report highlighting that many teachers' language skills are insufficient. 

Issues were also noted in the teaching of maths in post-primary schools. One-fifth of lessons were inadequately planned, while the quality of learning was categorised as less than satisfactory in 26 per cent. 

According to Education Minister Ruairi Quinn, the report contains many examples of good practices in Irish schools, but also shows the Irish education system is "screaming for reform" in some areas.

Written by Donal Walsh

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