Written question asked by Helen Jones (Labour) on Tuesday, 15 November 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 17 November 2005. It was answered by Maria Eagle (Labour) on Wednesday, 23 November 2005 on behalf of the Department for Education and Skills.

Special Educational Needs

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills if she will make it her policy to include compulsory modules on (a) identifying children with special educational needs and (b) developing appropriate teaching methods for them within initial teacher training courses.

Answer: I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given on 1 November 2005, Official Report, columns 1002–03W, in response to her earlier question on training to equip the education workforce with the skills needed to improve attainment among pupils with special educational needs. That answer explained the SEN requirements already in place for teachers undergoing initial training and induction.As part of a review of professional standards, including those for Qualified Teacher Status, the Training and Development Agency for Schools will be looking at whether there is a need to strengthen the Standards relating to special educational needs and inclusion. The Agency will also consider whether there is a case for expanding associated guidance. The Department will of course contribute to this process.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 439 c2097W;439 c2096W; 29701
Session: 2005-06
Related items: Special Educational Needs
Tuesday, 1 November 2005
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects: Qualifications Teachers Special educational needs Training Teaching methods
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk