§ 99. Mr. Hirstasked the Minister of Education why there are no kindergarten schools available for deaf children; to what extent their provision is contemplated; and when such facilities may be expected within a reasonable distance of Shipley.
§ Mr. HardmanThe lowering of the age at which deaf children first go to school is a recent development and there are not enough places for young deaf children to meet the demand. Since an early beginning is of great importance for these children my right hon. Friend's aim is to secure sufficient additional special school provision to enable every deaf child over the age of two to attend school whose parents wish it. The nearest schools for the deaf to Shipley are at Bradford and Leeds. both of which take children under five. Extensions in progress or shortly to be undertaken at a number of other schools for the deaf in the North of England will provide increased accommodation for young children.