HC Deb 05 May 1955 vol 540 cc157-8W
33. Mr. K. Thompson

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will give for the years 1953 and 1954 the number of candidates who qualified for the Central Training Council's Certificate in the residential care of children; the number who failed to complete the training course; the number who completed the course but failed to obtain the certificate; the number of persons holding the certificate now employed in children's homes and the average cost of training each student who completed the course; and if he will make a statement on the work of the Central Training Council.

Sir H. Lucas-Tooth

In 1953, 176 students qualified for the Central Training Council's Certificate in the residential care of children; 17 failed to complete the course; four completed but failed to qualify; and as far as is known 119 who obtained the Certificate are employed in children's homes. The average cost of training students completing the course was £300. The corresponding figures for 1954 were, 138 qualified, 15 failed to complete, two completed and failed to qualify, 114 employed in children's homes. In 1954 the average cost was £320.

Courses of training are provided, for staff undertaking boarding out and kindred social work with children in the care of local authorities and voluntary organisations, and for staff of children's homes. Refresher courses are also provided.