Teacher workload to feature in education summit

Education secretary has written to teaching unions ahead of today’s summit on Scottish education to ask for suggestions on how to reduce their workload.

The conference will gather politicians of all parties with educationalists and teachers’ representatives to build a consensual “delivery plan” to raise standards and close the gap in attainment between the rich and poor.

Most parties had pledged to “empower teachers” in their manifestos before the election.

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Leaders of the Educational Institute of Scotland, Scottish Secondary Teachers’ Association, NASUWT Scotland, Voice, School Leaders Scotland and the Association of Headteachers and Deputes in Scotland have been asked to identify “specific, tangible ways” to reduce teacher workload, after campaigns on the issue have led to strike ballots.

In his letter Swinney identifies the issue as a “key challenge” and asks the unions for ideas for how to “de-clutter” approaches.

“I have made clear that young people are at the heart of what we are trying to achieve. Proposals should therefore reflect the key principles of Curriculum for Excellence and protect the integrity of our national qualifications.

“This is part of a crucial dialogue we need to have with all those who have an interest in improving Scottish education. This will continue with today’s education summit,” he said.