Alternative entrance to primary school teachers profession

The thesis examines the issue of alternative pathways into the teaching profession at the primary school level. Its aim is to understand the qualifications, motivations, and prior experiences with which applicants enter programmes of supplementary pedagogical studies, and how they themselves evaluate their readiness for the teaching profession. The theoretical part defines the requirements for primary school teachers, describes both traditional and alternative routes into teaching in the Czech Republic and abroad, and presents the legislative framework that enables these pathways. The practical part is designed as a sequential mixed-methods study. The quantitative phase employs a self-assessment questionnaire of pedagogical competencies, while the qualitative phase is based on focus group discussions and individual interviews with programme participants. The results show that applicants entering the profession through alternative pathways form a heterogeneous group with diverse professional and life experience. They report the highest confidence in creating a safe learning environment and in professional ethics, whereas they feel least confident in the areas of professional collaboration and providing feedback and assessment. The findings may serve institutions providing supplementary pedagogical...