Pupil-Teacher Ratio (Primary and Secondary Schools)

HC Deb 14 February 1972 vol 831 cc37-8W

Mr. Pardoe

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what is the current average pupil-teacher ratio in primary schools and secondary schools, respectively; and if she will estimate what it will be in 1975–76.

Mr. van Straubenzee

The preliminary estimate for England and Wales in January 1972 is 26.3:1 for primary and 17.6: 1 for secondary schools. Because the distribution of teachers among schools is a matter for local education authorities, I cannot make any useful estimate for 1975–76.