HC Deb 20 November 1930 vol 245 cc605-6
63. Mr. EDE

asked the President of the Board of Education how many secondary schools which are both rate-and grant-aided have equipment enabling them to give mechanical and practical courses at least the equivalent of the courses provided in junior technical schools?

Sir C. TREVELYAN

I regret that 1 am unable to give the desired information. A certain number of secondary schools include engineering courses in their curriculum and possess the necessary equipment for this purpose, and if my hon. Friend so desires, I shall be glad to give him any information I can in regard to them. But I am afraid that I have not found it possible to apply the standards obtaining in junior technical schools so as to make the comparison suggested in the question.

Mr. EDE

In considering the plans of new secondary schools, will the right hon. Gentleman try to see that provision is made for adequate courses of practical instruction suitable to the ages of the boys and girls there?

Sir C. TREVELYAN

Yes.

Viscountess ASTOR

Does not the right hon. Gentleman think that, without that, the extra year will be a waste of time?