§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what provision is made in the training of teachers to assist them in dealing with disabled children attending schools for the able-bodied; and what discussions she has had regarding this training with the appropriate authorities.
§ Mr. van StraubenzeeMost students in colleges of education have an opportunity to learn about the handicaps they are likely to encounter in ordinary schools, and I am hoping that this aspect of their training will be developed further.
§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what provisions her Department insists upon for the disabled in new schools, and in new buildings in old schools; and what additional financial help is provided for such facilities.
§ Mr. van StraubenzeeSection 8 of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act, 1970, imposes certain duties on those responsible for the provision of new schools. Guidance on the implementation of the Act has been given in the Department's circular 65/70, a copy of which I am sending the hon. Member. Provided that the needs of the disabled are taken into account early in the planning stage, little extra cost is involved.