The future of STEM education in Scotland’s schools is in doubt, Scottish Labour has warned today.
Statistics published by the Scottish Government on initial teacher education intake for 2022 spark serious concern for the future of Scotland’s teaching profession.
The numbers entering STEM teacher education are a particular cause for concern, falling short of targets to the tune of 136 Maths teachers, 111 Chemistry teachers and 71 Physics teachers.
These statistics demonstrate that the STEM bursary scheme, frequently cited by the Scottish Government, is not working.
Commenting, Pam Duncan-Glancy MSP said:
“Teachers are telling us they are overworked, and they are clear that cuts to councils is having a huge impact on their resources and ability to deliver the highest standard of education. It is no wonder fewer are choosing to enter the profession.
“The fall in new teachers in STEM subjects is a real worry. How can we drive the number of pupils in these subjects up if there are not enough teachers to teach them?
“A lot of hard work has gone into encouraging young women and girls into STEM too, but they can't go into it if there are no teachers for them, it would be really disappointing if progress were to be undone.
“Urgent action is needed to secure the future of STEM education so that young people have access to a high-quality education that will equip them for the jobs of the future.
“It’s time that Shirley-Anne Somerville got to grips with the teacher recruitment crisis before children in the Glasgow Region, and across Scotland, pay the price.”
ENDS