HC Deb 25 February 1960 vol 618 cc82-3W
Mr. Skeffington

asked the Minister of Education what are the numbers of teachers with specialist qualifications in science and mathematics who are teaching these subjects in grammar, technical, and other State schools; what are the numbers of unfilled vacancies in the two subjects; and what is the anticipated shortage of such teachers for each of the years 1961 to 1965.

Sir D. Eccles

In 1959 there were 5,100 mathematics and 7,700 science graduates teaching senior pupils in maintained schools. There were also 3,250 non-graduate specialists in these subjects in schools with courses leading to G.C.E. at Ordinary level. An inquiry made in 1958 showed 244 vacancies in these schools for mathematics teachers and 261 for science teachers. On the basis of an annual net increase of 500 mathematics and science graduates the shortage of these teachers on 1959 staffing standards would be 500 in 1961, 750 in 1962, 900 in 1963 and 350 in 1964. In 1965 there would be 250 available to improve on 1959 standards. The actual shortage will depend upon the results of the present drive to increase the number of graduates and on the output of specialists from training colleges.