asked the Minister for Education his policy on the teaching of woodwork, mechanical drawing and building construction in secondary schools; if financial aid is made available to secondary schools which provide for the teaching of such subjects and in regard to which there is a cost in respect of the input of materials; if he will consider providing a grant, especially in view of the fact that such grants are made to the vocational schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Secondary School Subjects.
143.
My policy is to encourage schools to provide comprehensive educational programmes which would meet the needs of all the pupils and cater for their different aptitudes and abilities. Secondary schools offering subjects such as woodwork, mechanical drawing and building construction may apply to my Department for grants in respect of the provision of furniture and equipment, including materials, subject to the terms of the grants scheme.
In the planning of new secondary schools or extensions to existing schools discussions on proposed facilities are held between representatives of the school management and my Department to determine an agreed schedule of accommodation. The schedule of accommodation is designed to enable the school to cater adequately for the educational needs of their pupils.