We must provide the time and space that teachers need
Ross Greer MSP, Education spokesperson for the Scottish Greens, today urged more support for teachers to deliver up-to-date Personal & Social Education (PSE).
At Holyrood's Education committee Mr Greer highlighted the findings of the Time for Inclusive Education (TIE) campaign, which found most teachers have never used or even heard of government-funded guidance designed to tackle homophobia, and Scottish Youth Parliament (SYP) research which found that most young people do not know what mental health support is available in their area.
In response, Susan Quinn of teaching union the EIS said that teachers need more "time and space" to fit everything in, while Ann Grant, Headteacher at Shawlands Academy in Glasgow, said that as society changes "schools have to respond."
Ross Greer MSP said:
"The evidence we heard today was clear. Teachers need more time to do what they do best - help our young people learn in a safe and happy environment.
"It's clear that PSE is out of date and overlooked in many areas. Addressing homophobia, biphobia, transphobia and mental health issues is hugely important. If we're serious about giving every young person the chance to do well, we must provide the time and space that teachers need.
"By investing in more staff to reduce class sizes, by cutting teacher workload and by ensuring adequate provision for Additional Support Needs we can support teachers so they can provide safe and happy learning environments."