CONFIDENTIAL
- 3 -
XCC(70)28
(iv)
primary school-leavers. It is to be emphasised that this figure of 18% calculated on the new age group basis represents a considerable increase in the numbers to be provided for, since although 16,8% of school-leavers are currently being aided in this sector, this figure represents only 10% of the 12-16 age group. At present the primary school- leavers currently account for only some 70% of the appropriate age group. It is to be expected, however, that this figure of 70% would increase with time, thus in any case drawing the numbers to be provided for on the old and new basis progressively closer together.
A
The extra school places to be found in Forms I-III under this new policy will be provided either directly in Government or Aided schools, or in private non- profit schools which will be assisted for the purpose, or by buying places in suitable private schools: in whatever proportion appears the most suitable and economic.
9
In amplification of the 18% target, it will have to be understood that 18% of the age group satisfies the aim; however, some fluctuation about this (or any other) figure, as numbers in the age group change and schools are put into operation, is inevitable.
10
The policy now proposed would leave some 32% of the age group, who are not yet covered, to be catered for in three-year courses receiving Government subvention. If the policy is adopted, planning will have to continue to determine precisely what sort of courses should be provided, in what proportions and in what schools. A new type of school may have to be evolved having, say, either 7 streams in Forms I-III and 2 streams in Forms IV-V, or 6 streams in Forms I-III and 3 streams in Forms IV-V. Some 22-25 such schools may be needed by 1976. It is thought that sponsors for them can be found. Schools of this type would thus be able to offer a full 5-year course to pupils who might be able to complete the full secondary course and who, if they cannot be accepted as eligible for aid within the 18% figure, could then continue to a Certificate of Education at their own expense should they so wish.
11
It is proposed that the fees payable during the 3-year period of aided post-primary education should be the same as those paid during the first 3 years in secondary schools in the public sector, and remission rates should also be similar or perhaps slightly higher, since a somewhat poorer section of the population may be involved. Final decisions on these points will have to await further study and more precise estimates of cost.
12
Some adjustments in the policies governing the grant of capital aid may prove necessary, but in general it would seem that these proposals would not, in themselves require any major changes in present practice.
CONFIDENTIAL