§ 55. Mr. Hindasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what latest figures he has for the recruitment of teachers in shortage subjects; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. RumboldFirm recruitment figures for entry to initial teacher training are not yet to hand but applications for courses in 1987 are up 15 per cent. overall and in mathematics, physics and craft design and technology they have increased by 39, 60 and 60 per cent. respectively.
The high rate of applications, which has been encouragingly consistent throughout 1987, suggests that the package of measures taken by the Government to improve supply is showing signs of success. A further statement will be made as soon as more up-to-date figures are available.