§ Lord Milvertonasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they are satisfied with the present level of support, financial or otherwise, given to maintain the standard and quality of theological teaching in universities and teacher training colleges.
§ Baroness BlackstoneYes. The teaching of all subjects, including theology and religious studies, in publicly funded higher education institutions is subject to quality assessment by the Higher Education Funding Councils. The quality of initial teacher training is also subject to regular inspection by OFSTED. In addition, religious education is classed as a shortage secondary subject by the Teacher Training Agency and as such is included in the Priority Subject Recruitment Scheme. The scheme provides financial support to initial teacher training students on shortage subject courses of up to two years in length, and funds for initial teacher training providers to publicise their courses and make them more attractive to students.