The staff shortage has led some teachers to check classes of more than 80 students in the gymnasium at Co Fermanag.
Many teachers who are self-isolating due to Covid 19 have to attend three lessons at the same time as some teachers from Ernest Integrated College.
School Principal Jamie Jackson Ware has criticized the Department of Education for its “lack of leadership” as the impact of Covid 19 continues to hamper schools.
The Northern Ireland Association of Schools convened on Monday in response to the rise in Covid cases, and many schools have switched to distance learning.
“The biggest problem for us right now is getting alternative coverage for teachers when they are facing major difficulties,” Jamie told MyFermanagh.
“Before Christmas, due to staff shortages, we had to combine classes, so we had to teach all year round in class.
“There are three classes in one, which is not ideal because you are often a non-specialist and have three classes in one area. When that happens, there can be up to 80 children.
“This could happen again in the next few weeks, so the staff is the biggest problem for us.
“We can’t hire a permanent staff member as a technology and design teacher, it’s simply impossible, so we have a non-specialist there and it’s directly related to Covid and a staff shortage.”
With some schools opting for a partial return to distance learning, the principal of Enniskillen said it was only seen as a last resort and called on Education Secretary Michelle McIlvin to provide more clarity to school leaders.
Jamie said, “This is a complete and utter lack of leadership in the Department of Education and especially in Michelle McElvin.
“They need to make statements about what principals really need to do in the school and make parents aware of the challenges we face.
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“Distance learning will be a last resort for us, it has its limitations and it has shown that in the end it does not work and is not as effective as front-end teaching.
“If we have no other choice, we will move to distance learning.
“This is an example of the lack of leadership in the department, they’ve let managers make decisions when they have to go out and say it has to happen.”
The Ministry of Education has been contacted about this story, but has not responded at press time.
Source: Belfastlive
Tim-32Brown is a distinguished writer for TodayTimesLive, known for his exceptional talent in article writing. With a keen eye for detail and a gift for storytelling, Tim crafts engaging and informative content that resonates with readers. His contributions reflect a deep-seated passion for insightful journalism and a commitment to delivering high-quality articles.
