HC Deb 16 March 1939 vol 345 cc585-6
49. Mr. Noel-Baker

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Education what steps he proposes to take to meet the present shortage of fully qualified teachers for the recreative physical training classes organised by local education authorities?

Mr. Lindsay

The arrangements made by the Central Council of Recreative Physical Training for courses of various types and duration for leaders and instructors of both sexes have been continued and expanded during the last twelve months; and the Council is being enabled to expand further the work during the coming financial year. In addition, more than half the local education authorities for higher education are conducting courses of training designed for the same purpose.

Mr. Noel-Baker

As there is undoubtedly a shortage of qualified teachers, would it be possible for local authorities to use qualified teachers trained by authorised voluntary associations in their spare time?

Mr. Lindsay

I will certainly bear that in mind. If there are any particular voluntary associations of which the hon. Member is thinking, I will see whether they can be fully utilised.

Mr. Ede

Will the hon. Gentleman consider giving unemployed ex-students from training colleges an intensive course so as to enable them to take their part in meeting this shortage?

Mr. Lindsay

If they are qualified, or with additional courses could be qualified, I should be very glad to bear that in mind.

Mr. Ede

Would the hon. Member circularise to that effect authorities in the areas where the great bulk of these students are found?

Mr. Lindsay

I cannot promise to adopt that particular method, but this question and the answer will no doubt give publicity to the matter, and I will in any case keep it in mind.