§ Mr. Wyn Robertsasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science how many students were admitted to teacher training courses on the understanding that their tuition would be free; and when they are expected to complete their courses.
§ Mr. Gerry FowlerTuition fees for teacher training courses were introduced in the academic year 1975–76, consequent upon changes in the student support arrangements made by the Education Act 1975 which brought teacher training students within the mandatory awards system. Most of the students admitted in previous years will under the new arrangements have their fees paid by local education authorities as part 405W of their mandatory awards. It is not possible to estimate the number admitted on the understanding that tuition would be free who may have been assessed as liable to pay part or all of a tuition fee.
§ Mr. Wyn Robertsasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science when he expects to complete his consultations with local authorities on the payment of tuition fees by students admitted to teacher training colleges on the understanding that tuition would be free.
§ Mr. Gerry FowlerI have consulted the local authority associations and understand that they have issued advice to their members on this matter. My Department will shortly be giving guidance to voluntary colleges.