§ Mr. Parkinsonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what steps are being taken to increase the supply of qualified teachers for adult training centres in England and Wales.
§ Dr. OwenThere are at present 320 places on courses approved for the diploma of the Training Council for Teachers of the Mentally Handicapped and an additional 85 places have been approved for the coming year. The Central Council for the Education and Training in Social Work, which will assume responsibility for relevant training in the autumn, is currently considering plans for a substantial further development of training in this aspect of day services.
§ Mr. Parkinsonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if teachers in adult training centres are on the same pay scales as teachers in special schools.
§ Dr. OwenNo. The pay of instructors at adult training centres is negotiated by the National Joint Council for Local Authorities Professional, Technical and Clerical Services. Teachers in special schools are paid on Burnham Committee scales.
314Wauthorised or are included in the approved programme.
§ Mr. William RossThe information is as follows:
§ Mr. Parkinsonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many adult training centres there are under the responsibility of Hertsmere District Council.
§ Dr. OwenThe relevant local social services authority is the Hertfordshire County Council, which currently has six adult training centres providing a total of 620 places. Hertsmere district residents attend the adult training centres at St. Albans. Welwyn Garden City and Watford.
§ Mr. Parkinsonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the youngest age at which a handicapped person may join an adult training centre.
§ Dr. Owen16 years, though children who can benefit from staying at school beyond the minimum leaving age are encouraged to do so where this is possible.