Teacher Training Courses

HC Deb 17 July 1969 vol 787 c864

11. Mr. Gardner

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what were the numbers of students in teacher training courses in 1964; and what are the latest figures available.

Mrs. Shirley Williams

In October, 1964, the number of students following initial teacher training courses in England and Wales was 65,851; the provisional figure for October, 1968, is 110,245.

Mr. Gardner

While appreciating what is being achieved, will my hon. Friend bear in mind the special needs of these non-academic children staying on at school until they are 16? Are there special new provisions for finding the special teachers needed for this job?

Mrs. Williams

A number of in-service courses have been mounted for teachers who are to take children in the raising of the school leaving age year. The Schools Council is working with the support of teachers on a number of other projects.