§ Mr. Speedasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science how many teachers are serving on the governing/managing bodies of schools; and where they are employed.
§ Mr. ArmstrongSuch appointments are a matter for local decision and are not normally notified to my Department.
§ Mr. Speedasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science when the model 416W instrument of government was issued to local education authorities for their guidance in appointing members of governing bodies of voluntary aided schools.
§ Mr. ArmstrongThe model instrument issued to local education authorities in 1945 was for a county secondary school. Every instrument providing for the constitution of the body of governors of a voluntary school is made by order of my right hon. Friend. The Education Act 1944 prescribes that one-third of the governors of a voluntary aided or special agreement school shall be appointed by the local education authority. It has never been considered necessary to offer guidance to authorities on the making of these appointments.
§ Mr. Speedasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what representations he has received regarding the inclusion of teaching staff serving on the governing/managing bodies of voluntary schools at which they are employed; and what is his policy on this matter.
§ Mr. ArmstrongA number of individuals and organisations have suggested that there should be provision for such appointments to be made. My right hon. Friend is at present considering a wide range of issues affecting school management and government and it would not be desirable to deal with one particular issue in isolation from the others.