Glasgow Schools Facing Staff Reductions: Concerns of Parents
Schools across Glasgow are in danger of losing more teaching staff after a recent pupil census, as reported by The Herald. Initially, staff allocations in schools are based on estimated school rolls, which are then checked in September of the new school year. However, the most recent figures suggest that some staff may be reallocated from schools that are deemed to be overstaffed.
In addition to potential staff reductions, the council is looking to recover the costs of additional staffing from schools themselves. This move has been criticized by EIS representatives, who argue that schools are already under immense pressure due to ongoing teacher cuts and reductions in support services.
Teachers, speaking anonymously, have expressed concerns that their schools may need to reorganize classes and create composite classes, leading to disruptions in students’ learning and increased workloads for staff members. Leanne McGuire from the Glasgow City Parents Group has highlighted parents’ alarm and frustration over the prospect of further staffing cuts and financial penalties for schools.
The impact of these potential cuts is expected to be significant, with Jane Gow of Glasgow EIS warning that it could leave a “gaping wound” in schools. She emphasized that the pupil census does not consider the additional support required for students with and without recorded support needs, putting further strain on headteachers.
Greg Dempster from AHDS also raised concerns about the added pressure on school leaders, who are already stretched thin. The looming reallocation process, combined with previous teacher cuts, is likely to cause in-year disruptions for schools and students.
While Glasgow City Council maintains that the staffing adjustments are routine and not related to budget savings, the Scottish Government is offering financial support to councils to protect teacher numbers. Talks are ongoing to ensure that teacher numbers are maintained, as the Education Secretary stresses that fewer teachers will not solve the challenges faced by schools.
In light of these developments, parents, teachers, and education advocates are calling for stability, investment, and support for students in Glasgow schools. With uncertainties surrounding staffing levels and potential disruptions, the need to prioritize education and student well-being has never been more crucial.
