What are you doing in practice to tackle the teacher workload crisis that you have previously described as ‘critical’?
“Reducing class contact is absolutely critical. We have got to create the headspace for teachers to get to grips with all of this reform. I accept that we should have delivered the reduction in class contact time by now. We have to work through the SNCT to deliver this. I know that there is a need for additionality in resource. I appreciate that the EIS has a view regarding the use of that time – I have said that I am open to having conversations around this.”
How does the Scottish Government intend to plug the gaps in funding for ASN provision?
“I was in Glasgow this morning, speaking to Headteachers about this very subject. I think we do need to look again at how we support ASN in our schools. I have said that we will commit to extending PEF funding to 2026-2027. That PEF money was meant to be additionality in schools – but it is not additional any more.”
Are you serious about tackling violence & aggression aimed at teachers?
“I’ve been very clear that violence in our schools in completely unacceptable. I understand very well the challenges that you face. There are challenges with toxic masculinity amongst young men, and the misogyny that persists aimed at teachers. We have seen real challenges, post-pandemic, and the abuse aimed at female teachers in particular. We have to get parental buy-in on any action plan to tackle this behaviour.”
Will you commit to delivering GTCS registration for instrumental music teachers before the next election?
“Yes, I will. We need to work with the GTCS on how this is delivered, but I will give an absolute commitment that we will move ahead with this prior to the election.”
What is the Scottish Government doing to address the funding pressures in tertiary education?
“Scotland’s colleges do a fantastic job supporting a curriculum that could not be delivered anywhere else. They must be supported. We have delivered flexibility to our colleges, and this has been a challenging time for the sector. On Universities, the government has delivered additionality to allow our universities to thrive. Some on the right believe that our policies on free tuition have contributed to the challenges, but I do not accept that. Free tuition is a red-line and a policy that we will stand by. Free tuition is so important in widening access to those who would otherwise be unable to attend university.”
What actions have you taken to ensure transgender and nonbinary learners are not adversely affected by the lack of Government guidance on the recent High Court ruling?
I know it is a really difficult time for trans and nonbinary pupils and teachers. As a member of the LGBT community, I understand the difficulties currently facing our trans and nonbinary community. I will be actively engaging with the EIS and other professional associations on these issues.
Closing remarks
“The main thing that I want to leave you with today is a huge thank you to Scotland’s teachers for all the hard work that you do. On resources, I am here in listening mode – I think we can work more creatively in the future to support education.”