HC Deb 24 March 1959 vol 602 cc1109-10
34. Sir J. Henderson-Stewart

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what action he proposes to take about the new ordinary grade examination and the recommendations of the Working Party on the Curriculum of the Senior Secondary School.

Mr. N. Macpherson

After considering the views received from various educational bodies, my right hon. Friend has decided to defer the introduction of the certificate from 1961 to 1962. He proposes to issue a circular within the next few weeks on the recommendations in the Report.

Sir J. Henderson-Stewart

This is a postponement. Have the schools asked for this postponement?

Mr. Macpherson

The Association of Directors of Education has pressed strongly for this and the Educational Institute of Scotland has advised deferment. On the other hand, the Association of Headmasters thinks that we should adhere to 1961, but since it would be desirable to introduce this change in an atmosphere of complete readiness, my right hon. Friend thinks it right to postpone until 1962.

Back to