New guidance for home schooling in Scotland

The Scottish Government has published new guidance to support home-learning for children and young people during the new school term as schools remain closed amid the coronavirus lockdown.

The information is aimed at teachers and other professionals working in the education system.

It aims to build on work already undertaken to support Scottish children learning remotely and utilise resources that are already available.

The guidance covers three main areas: learning and teaching at home; parental involvement and engagement; and support for teachers and school leaders.

New guidance for teachers to support home-schooling has been issued by the Scottish Government

The publication comes as the summer term begins this week and there remains no date set out for schools to reopen.

Deputy First Minister John Swinney said: “Given the unprecedented circumstances, we cannot predict when schools in Scotland will reopen.

“However, our focus is that while schools are closed learning continues, and we all have a role to play.

“Local authorities, schools, teachers and practitioners know their learners really well and have shown extraordinary dedication and professionalism in adapting and making decisions in the best interests of the children and young people.

“While we do not expect teachers, parents and families to replicate schools or classrooms, we are committed to working with all partners in Scotland’s education system to protect pupils’ well-being and ensure learning can continue in an appropriate way wherever possible.

Education Scotland chief executive Gayle Gorman said: “Moving into the summer term, practitioners, learners and their families will be preparing for more learning at home.

“Education Scotland is working with partners, prepared and ready to support all who are working with our learners across Scotland.”

Further advice, aimed specifically at parents and carers, is due to be set out in coming days.

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