School staffing concerns

Staff at Perth High School’s English department are working in a “toxic environment”, according to a whistleblower.

And pupils are also said to be suffering from unsuitable staffing levels caused by staff being absent and a shortfall in supply replacements, it has been claimed.

The claims emerged from someone reportedly with connections to the school, and whom it is understood may have approached council representatives.

In correspondence seen by the PA, the anonymous source said that earlier this month an emergency timetable was being introduced for the department in order to support senior pupils due to sit exams.

And they have alleged that the problems within the English department centre around its day to day operation, with the level of staff absences “high” they said.

Last year they said the council started two actions for the department, the second of which in December saw an external investigation carried out.

The person went on to describe the issue as a “shambles” which is being allowed to “drift on”.

Alexander Stewart, MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, said he will discuss the situation with Sheena Devlin, head of education at Perth and Kinross Council.

He said: “There’s no smoke without fire and I’m very concerned about the allegations levelled at Perth High School. There would appear to be difficulties in the English department that require to be managed and I asked the education director to discuss the state of play here.

“She’s indicated that she would like to speak to me. I want clarity on this as these allegations need to be addressed.

“Perth High School has a good reputation and has done well overall. Therefore, we need to discuss these allegations that have been flying around, otherwise its position will be jeopardised.”

Councillor Willie Wilson, said: “I’m aware of challenging staffing issues at the English department of Perth High School.

“I will continue to help support the school and the education service to try to resolve the situation. There are no easy solutions due to the current shortage of teachers.”

When contacted by the PA, a PKC spokesperson said they could not comment on the allegations.