Untrained Teachers not enrolled in CPCE can be terminated

The Ministry of Education (MoE) is demanding that all Teachers must be trained or undergoing training to be employed in the public education system.

In a Memorandum to Regional Education Officers dated May 13, Chief Education Officer Dr. Marcel Hutson advised that all untrained teachers in the system, including those currently employed, must enrol at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) without delay at the appropriate level and programme.

He noted that “Failure to enrol as advised herein may result in the Ministry’s inability to continue the employment of the persons so failing.”

Previously, Teachers were allowed to work while for one year before acceptance into CPCE but according to the Memo, this no longer obtains.

“It is important to note that the criterion requiring the employment of in-service teachers for one year before entering CPCE is hereby withdrawn,” the CEO said.

The Ministry noted that these measures are in keeping with the objective of the MoE to have all teachers trained. This approach is necessary as it aids in the attainment of the mandate of the MoE Education Sector Plan (2021-2025) with regards to: Improving accountability and efficiency in the classroom, Improving performance at all levels and Reducing inequities in the classroom, it said.

Education Minister Priya Manickchand last year stated that the Ministry is working to have 100% trained Teachers in the education sector.