HC Deb 12 July 1962 vol 662 cc1490-1
6. Mr. Boyden

asked the Minister of Education how many of the following 20 training colleges which each took fewer than five day students during 1961–62, namely, Shenstone, Gloucester Domestic Science, Hampstead Domestic Science, Bedford, Chelsea, Dart-ford, Nonington and Lady Mabel Physical Training Colleges, Neville's Cross, St. Hild's, Charlotte Mason, Barry, St. Mary's Bangor, Ripon, I. M. Marsh, Southlands, Anstey, Bath Academy, Ilkley, Thornbridge Hall, were inhibited from taking more day students through shortage of teaching staff, and through insufficient teaching accommodation, respectively.

Sir D. Eccles

The small number of day students at these colleges was due in the main either to geographical location or to the specialist character of the college, or, in some cases, to both.

Mr. Boyden

Where it is possible to do so, will the right hon. Gentleman ask the colleges to request resident students who are within travelling distance to make way for day students, to enable them to take in more day students on that basis so that more places will be available to the several thousand students who have not yet got places?

Sir D. Eccles

We are discussing that and other suggestions with the colleges, and they are responding very well in crowding-up with additional day students.

Mr. Willey

The right hon. Gentleman will remember that about a fortnight ago he said he would consider calling attention to the success of the Trent Park, Southend, experiment. Has he taken any further steps about it?

Sir D. Eccles

I should require notice of that.

9. Mrs. White

asked the Minister of Education what response he has had to his recent request for the establishment of more day training colleges for teachers; and what consideration is being given to the suggestion of sandwich courses made by certain representatives of education authorities.

Sir D. Eccles

A good number of authorities have indicated their willingness to help in establishing temporary day training colleges: some have premises already in mind; others are investigating the possibilities. The necessary decisions will be taken as quickly as possible.

The suggestion referred to in the second part of the hon. Lady's Question is being included by the National Advisory Council in its urgent consideration of various ways of increasing output from existing training facilities.

Mrs. White

Will the right hon. Gentleman arrange to publish as soon as possible the names of the authorities which are establishing day training colleges so that intending students and the general public may be aware of them?

Sir D. Eccles

Yes, Sir; I will, because I think that would encourage others.

Mr. F. Harris

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that Croydon is very anxious indeed to establish a teacher training college?

Sir D. Eccles

Yes, Sir.