This week, we met with Jenny Gilruth and senior government representatives to discuss the ongoing crisis in teacher employment. The meeting was informal but constructive, and the Cabinet Secretary appeared receptive to our concerns and ideas.
We raised:
- The lack of accurate supply-teacher numbers because of gaps in the teacher census.
- Using supply staff on permanent contracts to help meet commitments to increase non-class time and improve staff-to-pupil ratios in schools with ASN and PEF needs.
- Ensuring that probationer teachers are genuinely supernumerary, as intended.
- The fact that the £145.5m annual education funding does not support permanent contracts because it is not permanent funding.
- Restructuring ITE (Initial Teacher Education) places to better match workforce needs.
The government holds the purse strings, but funding and responsibilities remain difficult issues between the government, COSLA and councils.
We are waiting for the formal minutes and will share further updates when we can. With the Scottish Budget announcement approaching, we hope the Cabinet Secretary will take concrete action on the teacher employment crisis.
We remain cautious but optimistic, and will continue to press for secure work and better workforce planning.
The date above is the publication date. The update describes a meeting held earlier that week but does not give the exact day. Its references to funding and forthcoming events reflect the position at that time.
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