§ Mr. Hardyasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he is satisfied that preparation for the new GCSE examination is now proceeding satisfactorily and that courses are likely to be able to commence in September.
§ Mr. Chris PattenThe preparations for the introduction of GCSE examinations have so far proceeded according to the timetable set by my right hon. Friend. Teachers have been able to consider draft GCSE syllabuses for some time, and approved syllabuses are now becoming available. The Secondary Examinations Council has completed its preparation and distribution of the materials necessary for the special programme of in-service training seminars, and the examining groups have completed their plans for the delivery of the first round of these training seminars.
In accord with the timetable set, the first seminars are being held this month. It is too soon to assess whether this next phase of training programme is proceeding satisfactorily.