§ Mr. Teddy Taylor asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will issue advice to local authorities that qualified teachers should be appointed to posts in charge of community homes where school education is provided; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Geoffrey Finsberg:No. These establishments are not boarding schools. The primary function of community homes, whether or not there is education on the premises, is to provide accommodation, care and control for children who do not have a suitable home elsewhere. Education is provided in some homes to cater for youngsters who need to be removed from home but who cannot be sent to ordinary schools. I understand that the education in such homes is invariably under the direction of a qualified teacher, but I am writing to my hon. Friend to explain the position more fully.
Mr. Teddy Taylor asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many community homes exist in England and Wales; and how many of these homes provide school education.
§ Mr. Geoffrey Finsberg:At 31 March 1980, the latest date for which figures are available, 2,165, of which 111 provided education on the premises.