§ Mr. Kilfedderasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will set out in the Official Report the terms of reference of the three working parties currently examining aspects of the implementation of comprehensive education, that is, the Astin, Dickson and Benn Parties.
§ Mr. CarterThe terms of reference given to the working parties which have been established to examine various aspects of the reorganisation of secondary education in Northern Ireland are as follows:
1. WORKING PARTY ON SCHOOL MANAGEMENT (chaired by Professor A E Astin)
To consider the arrangements for the management of schools in Northern Ireland, with particular regard to the reorganisation of secondary education, and the Government's wish to ensure that integration where it is desired should be facilitated and not impeded, and to make recommendations.These terms of reference have been extended to include tertiary colleges.2. WORKING PARTY ON VOLUNTARY SCHOOLS (chaired by Dr J M Benn)
To consider the changes that are needed to ensure that voluntary schools continue as a major part of the new comprehensive system of secondary education, and in particular the financial arrangements, and to make recommendations".3. WORKING PARTY ON ADMINISTRATIVE AND LEGISLATIVE ASPECTS OF REORGANISATION OF SECONDARY EDUCATION (chaired by Dr R J Dickson)
Specific terms of reference have not been given to this working party, but it is dealing with a wide range of subjects, as indicated in paragraph 22 of the Government's statement of 15th June 1977, and other particular issues may be referred to it from time to time. Its general remit is to examine all administrative and legislative aspects of developing secondary education along comprehensive lines—other than the two special issues which the other working parties will consider—including steps necessary to obtain parity of esteem of all secondary schools in the eyes of the community, the staffing of secondary schools, the role of further education colleges, the effect of change on individual teachers, the planning for change within schools, in-service training, preparatory departments, boarding departments, and amending legislation.