§ 13. Miss Lestorasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what educational qualifications are required of the persons concerned before his Department registers an independent school.
§ Miss BaconNone, Sir. But if, after the school has been inspected, I am not satisfied that efficient and suitable education is being provided, a notice of complaint is served on the school. If the matters complained of are not put right within a specified time, then, subject to appeal, the school may be struck off the register.
§ Miss LestorI thank my right hon. Friend for that reply. Would she agree that the standards of independent fee paying schools, particularly at the primary level, vary enormously? Is it not about time that we insisted on certain educational qualifications being held by people who set themselves up to charge fees for this type of education?
§ Miss BaconI agree that standards vary, and that is why we are at present taking steps to raise the general standard. My hon. Friend will be aware that the Plowden Committee recommended that head teachers of all independent schools should be qualified. We have already made an announcement to the effect that we are in favour of this; but it would, of course, require legislation.
Mr. R. C. MitchellWhat period usually elapses between the time when a new independent school is set up and the place being inspected by Her Majesty's inspectors?
§ Miss BaconI cannot give the precise time. As soon as we receive an application for registration we see that an inspection takes place as soon as possible.