Teachers deserve credit for role in students’ successes
The summer holidays will soon seem like a distant memory to many, as we look ahead to the days and months that remain in 2018.
And I want to begin my column this month by paying tribute to the many teachers and education staff who will be starting the new academic year — and saying thank you for the work that you do day in and day out to support our young people to achieve.
Of course, we recently saw the impact of that hard work in the form of exam results day.
A day that is rightly a time to celebrate the achievements and dedication of learners right across the country, especially in this the Year of Young People. But also to recognise the hard work and dedication of our teachers not only here in Lanarkshire but across Scotland, who deserve our thanks.
Another positive element of results day this year must be the fact that a record number of students from Scotland’s most disadvantaged areas have successfully gained a place at university according to UCAS statistics published — the third year in a row a new record has been set. Ensuring our young people go on to positive destinations like university, college, modern apprenticeships and work remains a key priority for the SNP Government.
With parliament in summer recess I have been delighted to spend time not only in my constituency office meeting with constituents and hearing more and more first hand the issues that are facing our community, but also the opportunity to engage in community events, reaching out to organisations and also focusing on supporting some of the fantastic work that is being done right across our constituency.
Since I last wrote for you, I have also had the chance to engage in meetings with many different organisations and agencies, including a recent meeting with fellow constituency MSPS and health and social care representatives in South Lanarkshire regarding the Modernising Care Agenda and ensuring that we continue to work together to deliver the best outcomes for all whom we represent.
This month also saw an important announcement by the Scottish Government, which I want to highlight in case you may have missed it!
The Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity Michael Matheson announced that the National Concessionary Travel Scheme or what I and many others call “the Bus Pass” will be extended to companions of eligible disabled children under five, which could result in over 3000 families and children additionally benefitting.
And it was announced that the age of eligibility will not change for the National Concessionary Travel Scheme, which was a concern that was raised. This SNP Scottish Government not only listened