§ Mr. Lyonsasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Education what 1274W progress was made during 1937 in the establishment of nursery schools; and the number and location of such that are now recognised by the Board of Education?
Mr. LindsayDuring the year 1937 the Board recognised 13 nursery schools with accommodation for 695 children, including one school recognised as efficient, but not for grant. In addition, 16 proposals for new nursery schools were approved in principle, and increased accommodation was provided at two existing schools. I am sending my hon. and learned Friend a copy of the Board's List 42 showing the location of the 94 nursery schools recognised on 31st December, 1937.
§ Mr. D. Somervilleasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Education whether he can define the attitude of his Department towards nursery schools and nursery classes, respectively, indicating their suitability in particular districts?
Mr. LindsayThe policy of the Board of Education in this matter was fully set out in paragraphs 2–4 of their Circular 1444, of which I am sending a copy to my hon. Friend. That circular divided children under five years of age into three classes—those whose physical condition and surroundings necessitate the continuous medical care and the feeding which are characteristic of a nursery school, those whose needs will be met by less specialised provision in the infant departments of public elementary schools, and those living in normal circumstances who benefit more from being in their home surroundings, under parental care, than in school. The Board are prepared to give favourable consideration to the provision of nursery schools and nursery classes in districts containing an appreciable number of children falling within the first and second of these classes respectively.