A union representing primary school teachers says students are putting on the 'green jersey' by stepping in as substitutes during the Covid-19 crisis.
It's expected around 4,000 teaching students will serve as subs in primary schools starting as early as next week.
Teaching colleges have agreed to reschedule exams and assignments to facilitate the initiative.
The Irish National Teachers' Organisation says 10,500 pupils, and up to 1,500 primary teachers are currently infected with the virus.
General Secretary, John Boyle, praised student teachers for signing up.
"It will certainly be a great experience for them working in schools, a tough experience let it be said at the moment with so much infection.
"It is welcome. I don't anticipate that the students will be negatively impacted by putting on the 'green jersey'.
"In fact, I think it will add to their college experience and serve them well in the years to come."
