'Our teachers are working harder than ever'

Glasgow Times

02-07-2025

I see this first hand through my own children's teachers, guiding and supporting them through exams and making sure they achieve their full potential in their exams.
In the face of unprecedented challenges, our teachers have supported thousands of children across Glasgow, and we should be applauding their creativity, dedication, and commitment.
Our teachers are working harder than ever to teach the increasing numbers of pupils needing extra support in the classroom.
Audit Scotland found around 40% of Scottish pupils are now receiving additional support for learning (ASL), most of it delivered within mainstream schools.
I believe that we need to rethink how we approach ASL and, rather than regarding the needs of pupils as "additional", see them for what they are - support needs that a significant proportion of the classroom population have.
An approach that reflected this would involve ensuring every teacher is equipped to support kids with ASL - both in resourcing and training.
Auditor General Stephen Boyle said: "The Scottish Government has failed to plan effectively for its inclusive approach to additional support for learning.
"The report found only about 20% of schools have dedicated facilities for ASL pupils, and dealing with their needs was increasingly a core role for classroom teachers.
"The inclusive approach had not been reflected in funding formulas, training, class sizes, or the design of school buildings," it added.
Things are not getting easier for our children; the Glasgow Labour Group is deeply concerned and disappointed by the decision of the SNP-led City Administration to cut school librarian posts across the city as part of its wider budget reductions.
This decision has seen 10 out of 14 librarian roles removed, leaving many of Glasgow's schools without the specialist literacy and learning support that pupils rely on.
School librarians are essential educators who support young people in developing research skills, nurturing a love of reading, and helping close the attainment gap.
Many of them also carry out roles which may not be captured in a job description or organogram.
Pitching in on extracurricular activities, identifying children and young people who need support.
They are a key part of the school community and cannot be removed without having a negative impact on that community.
Removing these roles is a regressive step that may harm pupils' development, particularly those who already face disadvantage.
Despite repeated warnings, the SNP administration pressed ahead with a so-called "service review" that was in effect a cover for cuts.
The review dragged on for more than a year and was revealed only days before the summer holidays, avoiding meaningful scrutiny or engagement with schools, pupils, or parents.
This decision further illustrates the SNP's disregard for Glasgow's education services and their ongoing failure to prioritise young people in this city.
The SNP talk about equity and inclusion, but their actions undermine both.
The Glasgow Labour Group will continue to stand up for our schools, our librarians, and the young people who deserve access to the opportunities that a properly supported education provides.
These roles should have never been on the chopping block, and we will continue to fight for their restoration.