HC Deb 11 June 1942 vol 380 cc1230-1
26. Mr. Dobbie

asked the President of the Board of Education why third-year courses for school-teachers have been discontinued; how many students are affected by this ruling; and whether, in view of the fact that the dearth of third-year trained teachers in specialised subjects is likely to have serious effects, particularly on future educational development, he will have the ban on third-year training removed?

Mr. Ede

Third-year courses are normally available for a limited number of those who are already qualified as certificated teachers. My right hon. Friend has felt obliged temporarily to discontinue the recognition of these courses owing to the present urgent need for certificated teachers in the schools. About 60 women are affected by the decision. The loss entailed is realised, but immediate need outweighs considerations of the future and my right hon. Friend does not feel able to modify this decision.

Mr. Dobbie

In view of the fact that the school-leaving age will in all probability be raised to 16 years when the war is over, and the need for fully-trained teachers will be greater, will the Minister be prepared to give further consideration to the matter?

Mr. Ede

That consideration has been in my right hon. Friend's mind, but the need for teachers in schools at the moment is so great that we cannot contemplate leaving people who are already qualified out of the schools.

Mr. Dobbie

Will my hon. Friend agree to give the matter further consideration still?

Mr. Ede

I will draw my right hon. Friend's attention to the hon. Member's insistence.