HC Deb 16 May 1978 vol 950 cc225-6
9. Mr. Madel

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science how many vacancies currently exist for those who would like to take the special Government courses for retraining in teaching of mathematics and science in schools and if she will make a statement.

Mr. Oakes

Some 270 qualified teachers are taking these retraining courses this year, and about 340 people are taking initial training courses with awards from the Manpower Services Commission. About 320 places will be available on retraining courses beginning next autumn, and initial training will again be available. Those now wishing to take such courses should apply as soon as possible.

Mr. Madel

As we now know the number of students taking these courses and the number of vacancies for those who can apply if they want to, can the Minister say what is the shortage of teachers of these subjects in schools and how long the Government think it will take to overcome that shortage?

Mr. Oakes

I cannot give the precise figure now but I shall write to the hon. Gentleman with that figure. It will take some years before the shortage of mathematics and science teachers is made up, but by these schemes the Government are doing their best to bridge the gap.

Mr. Spearing

Will any of the teachers who are retraining in science be equally competent to take physics, biology and chemistry classes up to O-level? Does my hon. Friend agree that over-specialisation in teachers who are unable to teach these three subjects up to O-level has been one of the difficulties in the past?

Mr. Oakes

They will be studying a variety of science courses and some of the teachers—I do not know the percentage—will be able to teach all three science subjects. Of course, some of the retrained teachers would not be able to do so.

Mr. R. C. Mitchell

Will the Minister ensure that teachers who are retrained to teach mathematics are able to teach traditional mathematics as well as that hotchpotch popularly known as modern mathematics?

Mr. Oakes

I think that training colleges are aware of the concern expressed in the country, but there are different ways of teaching mathematics to different students and pupils. However, I think that training colleges will be aware of my hon. Friend's concern.