HC Deb 06 May 1965 vol 711 cc1543-4
18. Mr. Sheldon

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what plans he has to encourage the study of mathematics at sixth form level, as a prerequisite to the education of scientists and engineers.

Mr. Crosland

The Schools Council is conducting a general review of the sixth form curriculum, which will include a study of sixth form mathematics. They are also publishing a Bulletin on primary mathematics, and collaborating with the Nuffield Foundation in a primary mathematics project. Secondary mathematics including sixth form mathematics is being studied by the "School Mathematics Project" the Director of which is Professor Thwaites of Southampton University. My Department organises a number of short courses for mathematics teachers.

The supply of graduate school teachers of mathematics was recently examined by a Committee under the chairmanship of Sir Nevill Mott. Its report recommended a continuing expansion of university mathematics departments and a broadening of the range of courses which they offer, in order to provide the schools with a sufficient supply of teachers of mathematics.

Mr. Sheldon

While thanking my right hon. Friend for his very encouraging reply, may I ask him whether he is aware that if mathematics is not studied at sixth form level, it is rarely acquired at a later stage in life and that this subject is crucial to the training of engineers, scientists and many others? Will he consider the setting up of a course specially suitable to the needs of such people?

Mr. Crosland

I am well aware of the consideration which my hon. Friend advances, but I think that the answer which I gave shows that a great deal is going on in order to try to improve the present situation.

Mr. J. H. Osborn

While welcoming the fact that Professor Thwaites is heading this committee and that the Schools Council is working on this and backing up the work of the Nuffield Foundation as well, may I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman can give any indication of the progress of the work, because this is a complicated subject? What contact is there with the schools?

Mr. Crosland

As the hon. Member knows, the schools are heavily represented on the Schools Council, so that contact is very close. Very good progress is being made. I am seeing Professor Thwaites tomorrow morning to discuss with him how the future looks.