HC Deb 25 April 1963 vol 676 cc393-4
10. Mr. Montgomery

asked the Minister of Education how many graduates have been refused the status of qualified teachers, having failed to obtain a diploma in education, in each of the last three years.

Mr. Chataway

Thirty-six, 13, and 21, in 1958–59 to 1960–61, respectively.

Mr. Montgomery

Does my hon. Friend feel that there is any incentive for anybody to take a diploma in education? Surely this diploma shows whether a person is suitable for the teaching profession. Does he think it satisfactory that a graduate going straight into teaching without a diploma is treated as a fully qualified teacher, whereas a graduate who takes it and fails is classified as an unqualified teacher?

Mr. Chataway

I recognise that there is an anomaly here. The difficulty will not arise when professional training is made obligatory for all new entrants, but I cannot yet say when that will be. On the other hand, I am sure that my hon. Friend would agree that it would be anomalous if my right hon. Friend gave the status of qualified teacher to somebody who failed to satisfy an area training organisation.

Dr. King

is the Minister aware that academic qualifications do not automatically make a good teacher? Will he say what real plans he has to secure that all entrants, including graduates to the teaching professions, receive professional training?

Mr. Chataway

It remains the intention of my right hon. Friend that all graduate entrants to the profession should have professional training. As I have said, however, for supply reasons it is not yet possible to introduce that reform. It remains our intention to bring it in.