§ 21. Dr. Brayasked the Minister of Education what percentage of children in recent years in the Borough of Thornaby-on-Tees has been selected at the 11-plus and 13-plus selections for secondary schools in which it is possible to take the General Certificate of Education examination; and what are the comparable figures for the North Riding as a whole and for the neighbouring boroughs of Middlesbrough and Stockton.
§ Sir D. EcclesIn each of the last two years 10 per cent. of Thornaby children were selected for grammar schools at 11, and between 3 and 4 per cent. at 13. The corresponding figures for the North Riding as a whole, are 17 and between 2 and 3 per cent. For all these pupils, the same tests are used and the same standard of selection is adopted. Corresponding figures cannot be given for Middlesbrough or Stockton because in these areas, unlike the North Riding, G.C.E. courses are available in a number of unselective schools.
§ Dr. BrayCan the Minister explain why the 11-plus selections in Thornabyon-Tees are not only so low but also require a correction of one-third, as compared with one-eighth for the North Riding as a whole? Does he not agree that the large number of late developers in Thornaby indicates poor provision of bath primary and secondary education?
§ Sir D. EcclesI have asked about this, and I have no reason to think that primary school education is of a lower standard in Thornaby-on-Tees than in the North Riding generally.
§ Dr. BrayIs the Minister aware of the large proportion of supply teachers employed and the poor quality of the school buildings? Will he consider an investigation into this, and will he undertake the replacement of the two obsolete secondary modern schools by a comprehensive school at the earliest date?
§ Sir D. EcclesThat is a very large request, but I will certainly look into it.