§ Mr. Keyasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if Her Majesty's Inspectorate has made a report to him about 9 to 13 middle schools.
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§ Sir Keith JosephHer Majesty's Inspectorate has today published a survey based on the full inspection of 48 9–13 middle schools; copies have been placed in the Library of the House. The report assesses the strengths and weaknesses of these schools and how well the children responded to the kind of education offered. Its evidence has implications for the education of all children aged 9–13 and needs to be addressed by national and local Government, administrators, teacher trainers, teachers, school governors and parents. Among the questions which require consideration are what the report says about the size of 9–13 schools and the age at which specialist teaching might desirably begin. I look to all concerned to undertake a careful study of this important subject.