New analysis released this week by the Scottish Parliament’s Information Centre (SPICe) shows there has been a 26% increase in the number of teachers under the age of 45 over the last decade. The latest figures confirm that under the SNP Government, an extra 7,016 teachers under 45 are now working in our classrooms, making up over 60% of the Scottish teaching profession. In 2009, the majority of teachers were over 45.
Analysis released earlier this year shows that Scotland also boasts an impressive pupil teacher ratio, with an impressive 7,495 teachers per 100,000 pupils, while England and Wales lag behind with just 5,586 and 5,119 teachers per 100,000 pupils respectively.
The SNP Government has committed £120 million of funding to be delivered directly to head teachers to spend at their discretion, allowing for additional staffing to boost attainment.
Kenneth Gibson MSP said:
“Thanks to SNP Government investment, we have thousands more new entry teachers the length and breadth of Scotland.
“Education is the SNP’s number one priority and by encouraging more young teachers into our classrooms we’re building a committed workforce fit for the future.
“As teacher numbers continue rising across Scotland, it’s no surprise that our pupils are performing strongly across reading, writing and numeracy.
“Despite this great news, this SNP Government won’t rest on its laurels and is determined to continue working hard to ensure each and every child in Scotland can reach their full potential.”
ENDS
