§ Mr. Fosterasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he is satisfied with the contribution of colleges of further education to the youth opportunities programme.
§ Mr. MacfarlaneColleges of further education are making an important and increasing contribution to the youth opportunities programme. Most of the short training courses and work introduction courses operated in the programme take place in colleges and about 40 per cent, of the trainees on work experience on employers premises schemes receive off-the-job education and training in a college. Additionally, eight colleges have taken part in a pilot scheme run by the Manpower Services Commission in conjunction with the City and Guilds of London Institute for the training of instructors.
§ Mr. Fosterasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he has issued any guidance to local education authorities regarding their involvement in the youth opportunities programme.
§ Mr. MacfarlaneThe government have encouraged local education authorities on numerous occasions to participate in the youth opportunities programme both as sponsors and by providing education and training. Authorities were notified in circular 10/77 of the terms of the programme before it was introduced, and advice on courses has been provided by Her Majesty's Inspectorate as well as the further education curriculum review and development unit.
My Department and local education authorities are represented on the MSC's special programmes board and local authorities and the education service are represented on area boards.