‘A child’s social background should not predetermine their life chances’ – O’Dowd | Latest Newry News, Newry Sport and Newry Business for Newry City

‘A child’s social background should not predetermine their life chances’ – O’Dowd

Education Minister John O’Dowd has commended teachers for their role in educating future generations.

Minister O'Dowd

Minister O’Dowd

Minister O’Dowd was speaking as he opened the 13th Annual Standing Conference on Teacher Education North and South.

The Minister said, “Since becoming Education Minister, my vision has been that all young people achieve their best and that our teachers and the wider education service supports them to do that. I strongly believe that education is central to the success of every pupil and wider society.

“Developing an education system that is world class, valuing every child equally, with schools capable of meeting the needs of all our children regardless of their background is fundamental,” he insisted.

“Your role, as teacher educators, is a central one and I know how committed schools are to inspiring our young people to achieve their best. Events like this are hugely important in driving forward work to improve the lives of our children and young people.

“I want to empower the teaching profession to strengthen its professionalism and expertise to meet the challenging educational needs of young people in the 21st century. I want to see every teacher supported to be a Lifelong Learning Leader, leading their own learning and that of their pupils.

O’Dowd added, “Teachers and school leaders are key to raising standards and I offer you my support in doing what I can to assist you. We must continue to push the boundaries and aim higher for every child, particularly those from the most deprived backgrounds. That way every child, whatever their background, will get the best possible start in life.”

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Posted by on Oct 16 2015. Filed under Politics. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry

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