§ Mr. SheermanTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science what steps he is taking to assist female teachers to take a break in their career and then return to teaching.
§ Mr. Alan HowarthThe Government are keen to encourage former teachers to return to teaching. On 18 January 1990, my right hon. Friend announced a £4 million education support grant programme over two years to help LEAs attract qualified teachers back into teaching and recruit new mature entrants. This funding will help LEAs to provide career break and keeping-in-touch schemes, job-share and part-time working and creche facilities. In addition, LEA training grant scheme funding is available for updating the skills and knowledge of qualified teacher returners. It is for LEAs and schools as employers to take advantage of these funds to respond to the specific needs of women returners.