Adult literacies award to launch
- A professional development award in “adult literacies” will be launched this year by Education Scotland and the Scottish Qualifications Authority. Children and Young People Minister Angela Constance also revealed Education Scotland would be given “strategic leadership” for adult literacy. Clare El Azebbi, Government policy manager for adult literacies, stressed that one in four adults had “some literacy challenges” and one in 28 had “very limited capabilities”.
Catholic schools bid to recruit
- A low number of applicants for senior jobs in Edinburgh’s Catholic schools has prompted a new recruitment drive. The Catholic Church and the city council are working on the initiative, after figures showed that applications were far below the city average. It will encourage pupils to consider a career in teaching and will organise coaching and mentoring for potential headteachers.
Struck off for sexual remarks
- A maths teacher has been struck off by the General Teaching Council for Scotland after making “indecent” comments to pupils in 2008. Kenneth Dickson, 30, who worked at Westray Junior High, had already been sacked by Orkney Islands Council. The GTCS decided a mere reprimand was inappropriate, because of the frequency and often sexual nature of the comments and pupils’ “tender age”; the witnesses were 12-15 years old.
Ban for primary supply teacher
- A South Lanarkshire primary supply teacher has been struck off by the GTCS. James McLeary, who is in his 50s, had been convicted of conducting himself in a disorderly manner, placing a 16-year-old girl in a state of fear and alarm, and committing a breach of the peace. He was also convicted of charges relating to two packages of obscene material he sent to the girl.
EIS confirms strike-ballot plan
- The Educational Institute of Scotland has confirmed plans to ballot members on strike action over proposed changes to teachers’ pensions. The union is recommending a vote in favour, with an initial strike set for November. The postal ballot will take place throughout October after papers are sent out later this month.
