HC Deb 16 February 1982 vol 18 c114W
40. Mr. Spearing

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what steps he is taking to identify the needs of those pupils in secondary schools who are not capable of benefiting from courses leading to public examinations.

Dr. Boyson

My right hon. Friend has made clear his view that there is scope for much improvement in the way schools prepare the least academically proficient children for adult and working life. He has suggested that the talents and potential of these children may be best developed not by a dilute form of the academic curriculum, but by opportunities to use their knowledge, and the other skills and qualities they need, in practical applications. My right hon. Friend is considering what further steps he might take to encourage developments in this field. He is also considering what action might be taken to provide all school leavers with a written record of their achievements at school, whether or rot these include public examination successes.