The way in which student teachers are trained in Scotland may be in for a significant shake-up with “teaching schools” to be established in Glasgow and Aberdeen, modelled on teaching hospitals.

Jim Conroy, the outgoing dean of education at Glasgow University, has said the project, which is funded by the Scottish Government, is at an early stage. But he suggests half a dozen primaries and secondaries in Glasgow’s west end could become teaching schools by January 2011.

He said the initiative will “enhance the professional status of teachers, bring school and university partnerships into a more robust alignment and improve the lives of school children”.

University teaching staff would be based at the schools, with students coming for placements.

Professor Conroy argues that the model would bring consistency to the experience of students on placement, addressing what he said was a “common theme of concern”.

Maureen McKenna, executive director for education at Glasgow City Council, described the project as having “great potential”. She added: “Glasgow is committed to providing new ways to enhance the professional development of our teachers.” ES.