Scottish teachers 'tired of being used as a political football', says union

A teacher’s association has said staff are tired of being “used as a political football” in funding discussions between local councils and the Scottish Government.

The Scottish Secondary Teachers Association (SSTA) claim they have received reports of proposed cuts in education with teachers and support staff numbers being potentially reduced.

However, the Scottish Government has argued that it is providing local authorities with £145.5m in next year’s budget to protect teacher numbers.

Teaching unions said staff have been dealing with “years of reduction” in funding without “the prospect of real investment”.

Seamus Searson, SSTA General Secretary said: “It’s that time of the year again.

“Teachers are tired of being used as a ‘political football’ in the funding battle with the Scottish Government.

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“The Councils have used this tactic in previous years to force money from the Government. This was also a tactic used 2023 in allowing the continuation of the first teacher strike in 40 years.

“Councils are threatening to reduce the number of teachers at a time when more are needed. I hope the Scottish Government do not call the councils’ bluff.

“Teachers have been dealing with years of reduction in education funding at school level without the prospect of real investment in education.

“Something needs to change to ensure our children get the best opportunities at school and cutting teachers is not the answer.”

The SSTA say staff have been dealing with “years of reduction” in funding. Photo: SSTA SSTA

A spokesperson for the Scottish Government added: “The Scottish Government is determined to close the poverty related attainment gap and ministers are clear that this will not be achieved by councils employing fewer teachers in our schools.

“To that end we are providing local authorities with £145.5 million in next year’s budget to protect teacher numbers.

“The Scottish Budget for next year includes record funding for local authorities of over £14 billion and Scotland’s Education and Skills Budget has grown to over £4.8 billion.

“Councils have statutory obligations in respect of education, and have a shared commitment with the Scottish Government to deliver the best outcomes for people and communities under the Verity House Agreement.”