‘Serious concern’ over teacher confidence in Highers, says union

Many teachers lack confidence in assessing pupils for the new Highers and Advanced Highers, according to a new survey of members by Scottish Secondary Teachers’ Association (SSTA).

Reporting their ability to assess pupils, 59 per cent of teachers lack confidence in the new Highers and 85 per cent in the new Advanced Highers. As many as 47 per cent said they were ‘not confident at all’ in their ability to assess the new Highers.

Forty per cent of teachers reported a lack of confidence in their abilities to produce appropriate course materials for the qualifications.

Schools were given the option to phase in the new Higher exams last year as part of the introduction of the Curriculum for Excellence's senior phase.

SSTA President Euan Duncan said there had been a high level of response to the survey.

“It is a matter of serious concern that teachers are not feeling confident and ready to assess the exam work of young people,” he said.

Satisfaction in teacher support bodies was low, with 63 per cent reporting they were not satisfied with qualifications body the SQA. Local authorities and Education Scotland didn’t fare much better, with 58 per cent and 54 per cent dissatisfaction rates respectively.

“There is an urgent need for employers, SQA and Education Scotland to move beyond statements of support into real, tangible, recognisable action,” said Duncan.

A spokesman for the SQA said support for teachers is ongoing.

“We are very conscious that teachers continue to need support to implement the National Qualifications. That’s why we have worked hard, alongside Education Scotland and in partnership with schools, colleges, local authorities and teaching unions, to offer the support and materials needed to make the qualifications a success. That support, engagement and commitment continues.

"Our programme of Understanding Standards includes the provision of support materials, exemplification and training events to support teaching professionals. The feedback we've had from teachers at these sessions has been positive,” he said.