asked the Minister for Education if she will clarify the position on the following matters concerning the vocational preparation and training programme courses (a) if the preferential pupil-teacher ratio of 17.5:1 for the VPTP courses in vocational schools will remain as at present despite the proposed disimprovement in the overall pupil-teacher ratio to 20:1 (b) if the voluntary secondary schools will continue their preferential pupil-teacher ratio for VPTP courses at 16:1 and (c) if she will give an immediate decision on these matters which are causing intense concern to school management.
Written Answers. - Vocational Preparation and Training Programme Courses.
316.
On the basis of data furnished by vocational education committees, teaching staff allocations are issued annually to the committees. In considering the allocation regard is had to the needs of the committees, to the resources available for education and other public services, and to the Government decisions relating to the adjustments to be effected in the staff of post-primary schools. Committees' needs in connection with approved courses under the vocational preparation and training programme are taken into account. It is hoped to issue teaching staff allocations in respect of the second level vocational area shortly.
There are no proposals for any changes in the staffing regulations for secondary schools for the coming school year.