HC Deb 10 March 1981 vol 1000 c268W
29. Mr. Michael Brown

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will examine the problems of providing for high ability children in all-ability schools, particularly in a situation of falling school rolls; and if he will make a statement.

Dr. Boyson

It is of great importance that all pupils, including the most able, should be fully stretched by their school work. Her Majesty's inspectors have, in their publications and courses, repeatedly drawn the attention of local education authorities and teachers to this need, and have pointed out the particular problems which may arise at a time of falling school rolls in relation both to the range of ability within teaching groups and the breadth of the curriculum that schools are able to offer.