HC Deb 26 October 1987 vol 121 cc4-5W
Mr. Wray

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what steps he is taking during the period of falling school rolls to reduce the pupil-teacher ratios in state schools.

Mr. Dunn

Total pupil numbers in maintained schools in England continue to fall until 1991, although primary pupil numbers have been rising since 1985. The Government's expenditure plans already provide for the overall pupil to teacher ratio, standing in 1986 at its lowest ever level of 17.6:1, to continue to improve up to 1990. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland is responsible for schools and teachers in Scotland.

Mr. Wray

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what were the average pupil-teacher ratios in state schools in the years 1979 and 1986, respectively.

Mr. Dunn

The average overall pupil-teacher ratios in maintained nursery, primary and secondary schools in England were as follows:

Pupil-teacher ratios
January 1979 18.9
January 1986 17.6

Information in respect of Wales and Scotland are the responsibilities of my right hon. Friends the Secretaries of State for Wales and Scotland.

Mr. Wray

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what are the average pupil-teacher ratios in schools in the independent sector.

Mr. Dunn

The average pupil-teacher ratio in independent schools in England in January 1986 was 11.3. Information in respect of Wales and Scotland are the responsibilities of my right hon. Friends the Secretaries of State for Wales and Scotland respectively.