Commenting on the school census figures published today by the Scottish Government, Chris Keates, General Secretary of the NASUWT, the fastest growing teachers’ union in Scotland, said:
“The overall maintenance of teacher numbers and pupil/teacher ratios across Scotland masks a more complex picture, with ten local authorities actually seeing a decrease in the number of full-time equivalent teachers and several local authorities seeing an increase in pupil/teacher ratios.
“Whilst the Scottish Government’s commitment to maintaining teacher numbers was welcome, this commitment could end up being pie in the sky if it continues to preside over pay awards year after year which continue the decline in teachers’ pay and worsen their conditions of service.
“The figures on teacher numbers also merit further detailed exploration, particularly in the early years sector where the number of qualified teachers appears to be falling most sharply.
“Given the Scottish Government’s focus on closing the attainment gap, ensuring that all children have access to highly skilled and qualified teachers from the start of their education must be a priority.
“It is welcome to note that there has been improvement in the state of school buildings, but still more needs to be done to make sure every child has a learning environment fit for the 21st century.
“Whilst the number of exclusions from schools has decreased, the NASUWT has concerns that this may mask pressure being exerted on teachers to maintain in schools pupils whose needs cannot be met in a mainstream school, causing additional disruption, not only to teachers but also to the education of other pupils.”
Jane Peckham, NASUWT National Official Scotland, said:
“The rise in the overall number of teachers on temporary contracts is worrying, particularly as we know many of these are likely to be probationary and new teachers.
“The increasingly uncertain economic outlook facing schools is undoubtedly contributing to this increase and action needs to be taken to ensure that all teachers can have access to secure employment which encourages them to stay within the profession long-term and supports them to give their best to children and young people.”
