Teachers still worried over new exams

THERE have been renewed calls to allow schools to delay the implementation of new exams if teachers say they are not ready.

Labour’s education spokesman, Hugh Henry, said thousands of teachers and parents across Scotland were “expressing fears and concerns” about the new national 4 and 5 qualifications, replacing the current Standard Grade and Intermediate qualifications from 2013-14.

But education secretary Mike Russell said a delay would “let down” pupils. He said discussions with unions were “going well”, and he was “optimistic” he would be able to announce more details over the coming week which would address the concerns of teachers.