To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what progress has been made, in conjunction with the Royal Society and the Association for Science Education, on the development of a career structure for science technicians; and if he will make a statement. [108310]
Since the Royal Society and Association for Science Education published their report in January 2002, we have been working closely with them and with the Consortium of Local Education Authorities for the Provision of Science Services to develop a career structure for science technicians. We have extended this work to include Design and Technology technicians and two guides with recommendations on career structure and induction have been produced. We are developing induction training for science technicians as part of our drive to enhance the role of support staff. Continuing professional development will be provided by the national network of science learning centres, a joint Department for Education and Skills and Wellcome Trust initiative.