Uncertificated Teachers

Oral Answers to Questions — Scotland – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 26 March 1969.

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Mr. Edward M. Taylor:

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the nature of the work being carried out by uncertificated teachers whose appointments have been disapproved by reference panels but who are nevertheless retained in the employment of local education authorities.

Photo of Mr Bruce Millan Mr Bruce Millan , Glasgow Craigton

The majority are, I understand, engage in non-teaching duties as instructors, supervisors, librarians or teaching auxiliaries.

Mr. Taylor:

I thank the hon. Gentleman for that reply. Would he agree that at this difficult time in Scottish education it would be a very bad thing, in gaining the confidence of the teachers, if those who were unregistered, uncertificated and not approved by reference panels were in charge of children in classrooms? Does that happen and, if so, can he give an idea of the extent?

Photo of Mr Bruce Millan Mr Bruce Millan , Glasgow Craigton

Those disqualified by reference panels are not permitted to take up teaching duties. Some complaint has been made about certain developments in Lanarkshire. I am looking into them very closely.

Photo of Mr Tam Dalyell Mr Tam Dalyell , West Lothian

May we know precisely the definition of an "instructor" in this context?

Photo of Mr Bruce Millan Mr Bruce Millan , Glasgow Craigton

It is difficult to give a brief definition, but perhaps I could define the word in this way. The work of an instructor must be regarded as supplementary or ancillary to the work of a registered teacher, and training for it must not be of the sort normally given in a college of education.