EIS claims pupils suffer in ASN cuts
Pupils who require support in schools in Lochaber and elsewhere across the Highlands are suffering frustration, anxiety and stress following the reduction in Additional Support Needs (ASN) provision since last session, according to a survey conducted by EIS Highland Local Association, part of Scotland’s largest teachers’ union.
The union says the key findings of this survey clearly demonstrate a ‘negative impact’ on all pupils, on teaching and learning, and on teacher workload and wellbeing.
When asked to comment on the impact on pupils, teachers identified two aspects: effects on pupils who require support and effects on those who do not. The most common observation was that the emotional needs of pupils requiring
support were not being met. Teachers reported an increase in frustration, anxiety and stress levels; more frequent disengagement from tasks, pupils opting for ‘safe’, less challenging activities such as building with blocks; and an increased incidence of actions of self-harm. ASN staffing
Teachers also reported having to spend increased time during lessons with pupils who require support, due to reduced ASN staffing.
Consequently, there had been a reduction in the time available for other pupils in the class, which had had a negative impact on their learning.
Fifty-eight per cent of respondents had witnessed an increase in low-level disruption, with 27 per cent reporting an increase in incidents of violence and aggression.
Ninety-one per cent of staff noticed an increase in their workload – an area of national concern and one of the reasons for the provision of additional in-service days this session – with 94 per cent having to undertake additional preparation and correction,and 67 per cent citing an increase in meetings with management.
Alistair Bell, EIS Highland secretary, said: ‘These responses confirm our grave concerns regarding effects upon both pupils and staff that were communicated to councillors and officials of Highland Council when the exact impact of the budgetary decision unfolded.’
Mr Bell added that teachers were being tasked with closing the attainment gap. However, their fear is that while the gap will close, it may be due to a reduction in the attainment of the highest achievers rather than by raising the attainment of those requiring support.
Councillor Andrew Baxter said: ‘These concerns from our school staff must be taken seriously by the council.
‘While there is a strong case for reforming the provision of ASN in the Highlands, this has to be from the bottom up – listening to teachers and parents to design a system that works for the benefit of all our children, while remaining affordable.
‘The council rushed into reform to solve a budget problem, whereas this issue requires a long-term solution.’
Asked to comment, Highland Council vice-convener Councillor Allan Henderson told the Lochaber Times councillors had not seen the survey the teachers and ASNs responded to and could only take the final report at face value.
‘What I do know is the council is carrying out its own consultation with all the school ASGs [associated school groups] parent forums to get first-hand knowledge of perceptions of the revitalised service. I believe Highland Council is still one of the greatest financial contributors, of all local authorities, to ASN while targeting resources to where they are needed most.’