Teacher shortage facing many schools

Sir, - Reading the allegations about Perth High School in the press has caused anger and upset among staff and pupils who cannot understand the motivation behind such actions.

I would like to assure parents that all incidents are taken seriously and are dealt with in line with Perth and Kinross Council protocols. Our priority is to work closely with pupils, staff and parents who are directly involved to ensure a positive way forward for all concerned.

We have been reviewing our behaviour management policy which is based on the Perth High School Charter. This charter was based on the views and opinions of pupils, parents and staff.

As part of this evaluation, the senior management team, teaching and non-teaching staff are all working together to ensure that it meets the needs of all involved.

The new positive behaviour policy will be implemented next term.

I am always happy to meet with any pupil, parent or member of staff that wishes to raise specific questions about the school.

We acknowledge that there have been some issues relating to longterm staff absence and difficulties sourcing subject-specialist supply staff. There are challenges in recruiting teachers across the country and this is not a situation which is unique to Perth High School.

We are, however, working diligently to implement contingency arrangements to ensure the continuity of learning.

We recognise the challenges for staff within this and are working as a team to support each other to deal with any difficulties arising from this. Mrs Thirza Pupillo. Headteacher, Perth High School.