Episode Details
Back to EpisodesScotland's Special Needs Teachers at Record Low
Description
New government figures show a stark decline in specialist teachers for additional support needs in Scotlands primary schools, now at a record low of 373 full-time equivalents. This drop coincides with a surge in the number of primary pupils needing extra help, rising from 5% to nearly 37%. Secondary schools fare slightly better, but still lag behind 2008 levels. Education groups and watchdogs are alarmed, criticizing the governments handling of rising demand. They urge parties to prioritize this issue in upcoming elections, as mainstreaming kids with support needs without adequate resources is proving ineffective. The latest teacher census also reveals broader shortfalls, including missed staffing targets and unfulfilled promises to reduce classroom hours. With over 40,000 primary kids needing specialist help, pressure is mounting for more investment in ASN staff, psychologists, and assistants to prevent vulnerable students from being left behind.
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