§ Mr. DafisTo ask the Secretary of State for Education what action is currently being undertaken by his Department to ensure that pupils studying science and technology in secondary schools are taught by teachers with appropriate degrees.
§ Mr. ForthTrainee teachers on secondary PGCE courses must have first degrees relevant to the school curriculum. Undergraduate courses of secondary teacher training must include at least two years' subject study at degree level which build on appropriate A-levels or equivalent qualifications. The Open university is developing PGCE courses in science and technology to increase the supply of appropriately qualified teachers. Shortage subject bursaries encourage recruitment to PGCE courses in science and technology.
The Department has also funded many initiatives to improve science and technology teaching, including distance learning courses for existing physics and chemistry teachers. The grant for education, support and training (GEST) specific grant programme for 1993–94 will support £46 million of LEA expenditure on in-service training for the basic curriculum and assessment, and a further £85 million is to be devolved to schools to spend on in-service training or books and equipment according to their needs.