HC Deb 15 February 1940 vol 357 c941
36. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Education whether the new arrangements for part-time education will include provision for nursery schools and classes operative before the beginning of the war; whether provision is being made for the provision and training of children in cultural, recreational and other beneficial activities during the part of the school day when they will not be in the school building; and whether the services of teachers will only be employed for half the school day or, if possible, for those other activities?

Mr. Lindsay

I presume the hon. Member has in mind the arrangements for the resumption of education in the evacuation areas. These arrangements, which are described in the circular, of which I am sending the hon. Member a copy, contemplate that all children remaining in these areas should be enabled to return to school at the earliest possible date; this would include children in nursery schools and classes as provision can be made for them. Local education authorities have been notified that where full-time schooling is impossible in the immediate future less formal occupations for the remainder of the school day should be organised.

Mr. Sorensen

Do I understand that for the remainder of the schooldays some attempt will be made to organise services for the children?

Mr. Lindsay

A special note was sent out two months ago about the effect.

Mr. J. Hall

Is it the policy of the Board of Education to have full-time educational facilities for the children in these areas at the earliest possible date?