An MSP is demanding to know why pupils at a Highland primary school have been taught by four different teachers – for a second consecutive year.
The SNP’s Kate Forbes reminded council officials that they promised last term the lack of consistency, caused by staff changes at Ben Wyvis Primary in Conon Bridge, would not be repeated.
But a week into the new school term, worried parents have contacted her because pupils revealed that the same year group – primary five – had again been taught by four teachers.
Ms Forbes, who represents Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch at Holyrood, has written to the council’s independent-led administration calling for an urgent resolution.
She said: “I appreciate that rural areas can find it more difficult to attract teaching staff.
“However, it’s utterly ridiculous that a primary school class in Conon Bridge is being taught by four different teachers.
“I’m not putting any of the blame on individual staff members. I’m confident they will be competent in their teaching abilities. But I share the grave concerns of parents.
“It’s easy to see how having four separate teachers at such a young age could have a negative impact upon learning outcomes.”
She added: “I urge Highland Council to take action as soon as possible, as the status quo will likely jeopardise these pupils’ education.”
A spokeswoman for the council said: “This issue was discussed with the head teacher prior to the current interest. We can confirm that the school has adjusted its staffing, so the class is taught by two teachers as a temporary job share arrangement. Two teachers job sharing is not unusual in our schools.
“The situation at Ben Wyvis Primary came about due to specific staffing issues, which the council is not at liberty to share. This arrangement will come into place on Monday.
“The school is receiving a quality improvement visit this week as part of our normal improvement programme.”
