Question reference: S5W-34847
- Asked by: Margaret Mitchell, MSP for Central Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party
- Date lodged: 28 January 2021
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Current status: Answered by John Swinney on 4 February 2021
Question
To ask the Scottish Government, as part of its response to the 2020 report on the review of additional support for learning implementation, whether it plans to investigate issues regarding the qualifications and training provided for teachers to enable them to competently assess for dyslexia, in light of concerns that, in a number of local authorities, the role of classroom teachers without specific training in this regard is increasing, while the role of educational psychologists is decreasing.
Answer
We are committed to ensuring that all children and young people get the support that they need to reach their full learning potential.
We provide free professional learning opportunities for practitioners in order to support education authorities to meet their duties under the Additional Support for Learning Act – including identifying, providing for, and reviewing the additional support needs of all their pupils, including those with dyslexia. These support practitioners to further develop their knowledge, understanding and skills in supporting learners with dyslexia, including through the Addressing Dyslexia Toolkit and the Dyslexia and Inclusive Practice online professional learning modules.
We recognise the important role that Education Psychologists play in supporting all children and young people, including those with dyslexia. Their work significantly contributes to the equality and inclusiveness of schools, and they play a vital role in raising the attainment of our children and young people. Educational Psychologists have and continue to provide vital support to children and young people throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
In October 2020, the Scottish Government, in partnership with COSLA and ADES, published our joint response which accepted the recommendations made by Angela Morgan's review of implementation of additional support for learning. Our joint action plan sets out the range of interlinked measures that will be taken to address each of the review’s 9 themes and improve the educational experiences of children and young people with additional support needs to ensure that they are fully supported in their learning. To take forward these measures we are working closely with local authorities and schools to improve consistency of support across Scotland. This includes improved guidance, building capacity to deliver effective additional support, improving career pathways and providing professional development resources.