Retired teacher Donald: it Been there, done that, had absolutely no effect
A RETIRED teacher who wrote to Nicola Sturgeon about his concerns three years ago said it had “absolutely no effect”.
Donald Woodrow said he contacted the First Minister and Education Secretary John Swinney outlining his concerns about falling standards.
The former maths teacher, from Lanarkshire, said: “Almost three years ago, I had occasion to write a very similar letter to Ms Sturgeon and Mr Swinney expressing my grave concerns about the state of our education system.
“This was after 35 years’ experience and a sudden desire to seek early retirement.
“Let me just say that other than a very standard acknowledgment letter from a very junior member of staff, my efforts had absolutely no effect.
“Unfortunately, contrary to the many pronouncements, this Government do not see the issue as a major priority.
“Unless the teaching profession as a whole, supported by the general public, make this an issue, then it will continue to be swept under the carpet.”
He told the Record that political point scoring has been a major obstacle in addressing structural problems.
And he called for parliament to listen to teachers, parents and local communities before “imposing changes”.
Donald’s career included time at St Patrick’s High School in Coatbridge, Holy Cross High in Hamilton and Calderhead High in Shotts. He was also seconded to Jordanhill College in Glasgow, where teachers are trained, for four years.
Donald added: “Levels of discipline, general funding and all-round job satisfaction have all seen a steady decline.”
He called for an overhaul but warned that international examples cannot be imported like a template.
Donald also said poor pay is pushing good teachers out of the door.
He added: “To attract the required individuals means making their training and future prospects financially attractive.”