MSP BACKS NEW GUIDANCE FOR HOME LEARNING

Published date : 22 Apr 2020

Mid Fife and Glenrothes MSP, Jenny Gilruth, has backed new guidance published by the Scottish Government to support the home learning of children and young people.

The guidance has been developed by the Scottish Government and Education Scotland, with advice and input from COSLA, Solace, The Association of Directors of Education in Scotland (ADES) and professional associations.

It aims to build on the significant amount of positive work that has already been undertaken by teachers and education professionals across Scotland to support learning at home, as well as the advice and resources that are already available.

The guidance covers three main areas:

learning and teaching at home: this includes support for digital learning; children who are likely to be disproportionately impacted; and learners with additional support needs

parental involvement and engagement: this includes details of local and national support and how local authorities/schools will require a different approach to being updated on a child’s development

support for teachers and school leaders: including advice on learning resources; supporting pupils’ and staff health and wellbeing; and on leading colleagues and teams during this period

The guidance can be accessed there: https://www.gov.scot/publications/supporting-pupils-parents-teachers-learning-during-term-4/.

The MSP and former teacher commented:

“As a former teacher myself, I understand all too well how difficult these unprecedented times must be for teaching staff, parents and students.

“The newly published guidance is aimed primarily at those working in our education system – highlighting the best ways in which learning at home can be facilitated as we enter the summer term.

“The Scottish Government’s strategy outlines their commitment to ensuring continued learning and protecting pupils’ wellbeing by working closely with all partners in Scotland’s education system to mitigate the worst felt effects from the Coronavirus outbreak.”

The Scottish Government Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills, John Swinney MSP, said:

“Given the unprecedented circumstances, we cannot predict when schools in Scotland will reopen. However, our focus is that while schools are closed, learning continues, and we all have a role to play.

“Local authorities, schools, teachers and practitioners know their learners really well and have shown extraordinary dedication and professionalism in adapting and making decisions in the best interests of the children and young people.

“While we do not expect teachers, parents and families to replicate schools or classrooms, we are committed to working with all partners in Scotland’s education system to protect pupils’ wellbeing, and ensure learning can continue in an appropriate way, wherever possible.

“The guidance is aimed at those working in our education system. We are working closely with the National Parent Forum of Scotland (NPFS) on further advice, aimed specifically at parents and carers, which will be published in the coming days.”

ENDS

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