§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what assessment he has made of the quality of teaching and standard of educational attainment in village primary schools in Powys; and if he will make a statement concerning his policy towards village schools.
§ Mr. Wyn RobertsHer Majesty's inspectors of schools in Wales have published a number of reports on small schools in Powys which include comments on quality of teaching and standard of educational attainment. Schools subject of reports published over the past year are:
- Penrhos County Primary School, Ystradgynlais
- Ysgol Pennant, Pen-y-Bont Fawr
- Buttington/Trewern County Primary School
- Ffynnon Gynydd Church in Wales Primary School, Glasbury
- Ysgol Trefeglwys, Llanidloes
- Crossgates County Primary School
In addition surveys have been carried out into various aspects of provision in Powys
Guidance on schools in rural areas is given in Welsh Office circular 20/88, a copy of which is in the Library of the House.