Next batch of new-builds
- The government has identified the next 30 schools to be built under the third phase of Scotland’s Schools for the Future. A further 12 were added to a list of 18 after #163;80 million was brought forward in last week’s budget as a result of savings delivered by the Scottish Futures Trust. The list includes the proposed senior secondary in Dumfries, to serve S4-6 pupils from four local schools, with links to further and higher education on Crichton campus.
Investment in creative spaces
- Scotland’s first centre for children’s literature has been identified as one of 16 projects funded via Creative Scotland’s #163;15 million investment in creative spaces. It will be situated at the restored Moat Brae house and gardens in Dumfries which inspired the creation of Peter Pan. Another recipient is the Ayr Gaiety Theatre, whose upgrade will include an education space and digital screen facilities.
Agreement on college merger
- Dundee and Angus colleges have agreed to pursue full merger. The two boards confirmed that the merged college would serve around 35,000 students. A spokesman for Dundee College said the Scottish Funding Council expected the move to take around 14 months. The announcement is the latest in a series of mergers and federations as the Scottish FE sector prepares for moves towards a regional set-up.
Guide to working with the disabled
- The Scottish government and Capability Scotland have launched a guide for people working with disabled children and young people. The publication tackles common misunderstandings related to moving and handling disabled children which have come about because of an over-emphasis on adverse consequences, fear of prosecution or lack of access to training or advice.
Ballot for action over pay offer
- Scotland’s largest union for teachers and lecturers, the EIS, has opened a ballot for industrial action over a pay offer of 1 per cent for lecturers in higher education institutions. The University and College Union is also balloting its members. Both unions have recommended a vote against the deal. Lecturer pay is subject to UK-wide talks through the New Joint Negotiating Committee for Higher Education Staff. The EIS ballot will run until 10 October; if members vote yes, industrial action would start from 23 October.
