HC Deb 23 October 1990 vol 178 cc156-7W
31. Mr. Ian Bruce

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science how many schools have links with local businesses.

Mr. Fallon

A recent survey by the Department indicated that around 90 per cent. of secondary schools and 54 per cent. of primary schools have links with local businesses. The findings of the survey were published in August as a DES Statistical Bulletin, a copy of which is in the Library.

80. Mr. Robert B. Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science what initiatives he is pursuing to ensure schools have closer links with industry.

Mr. Fallon

The Department is working with other Government Departments, links bodies and employers in a range of initiatives designed to further the growth of links between schools and industry. In particular, we are taking forward an initiative to support local education business partnerships which will have a broad balance of membership from local business, education and community interests. The Department also selectively funds individual projects and organisations, publishes and distributes information and guides to good practice, and encourages the incorporation of economic and industrial dimensions into the school curriculum.