§ Mr. Gwilym JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales (1) when he intends to introduce proposals to make the full courses in history and geography alternatives in key stage 4;
(2) when he will publish a draft order to introduce a reduced course for geography in the national curriculum at key stage 4.
§ Mr. David HuntI have published today a draft supplementary order with an associated document setting out attainment targets and programmes of study for a reduced course in geography in the national curriculum at key stage 4. Copies of the documents have been placed in the Library of the House.
I am consulting widely on the draft as required by section 21(3) of the Education Reform Act 1988. The period for consultation will end on 31 July 1991. I intend to make the final order in October 1991 to allow ample time for the planning of syllabuses and courses. The statutory requirements for geography in the national curriculum in key stage 4 take effect from autumn 1994. I have also published today proposals to give effect to my intention that the full courses for history and geography in the national curriculum are alternatives at key stage 4. Consultation upon the proposals is the first stage in the procedure set out in section 21 of the Education Reform Act to make regulations under section 17 of that Act. Copies of the proposals have been placed in the Library of the House.
My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Education and Science will be publishing separately a draft order to introduce a reduced course for geography in England and his proposals in respect of history and geography in key stage 4.