§ 28. Mr. G. M. Thomsonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he is taking to enable uncertificated teachers in Scotland to become fully-qualified teachers.
§ Mr. MaclayAny uncertificated teacher may apply for a grant under the Special Recruitment Scheme to enable him to acquire the qualifications necessary for recognition as a certificated teacher. An uncertificated teacher who already has qualifications, training or experience which might justify his certification in Scotland may apply to the Scottish Council for the Training of Teachers, who will recommend whether he can be recognised forthwith or requires further training. In appropriate cases the normal course of training may be shortened.
§ Mr. ThomsonIs the Secretary of State aware that these arrangements have proved quite inadequate? Will he put more energy and urgency into having consultations with universities and colleges of education about vacation courses and evening courses to enable all the untrained teachers who have the capacity to become trained teachers? Will he also try to rid Scottish schools of those teachers who are untrained and have no capacity to become trained teachers?
§ Mr. MaclayThe hon. Member has gone very wide of the Question. I am not aware that the arrangements have proved unsatisfactory. There are 220 students, who have been uncertificated teachers, at present receiving training under the scheme.