New guidance issued to support home learning for pupils during the pandemic

The Scottish Government has issued new guidance to support home learning for pupils in their new term.

It's been a month since schools shut across Scotland due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Education Secretary John Swinney says the government cannot predict when kids and young people will be allowed back into the classroom.

The new guidance covers three main areas.

Firstly, learning and teaching at home, where there will be a focus on digital education, helping children affected more than others and supporting those with additional support needs.

Secondly, parental involvement and engagement, including details of local and national support and how schools will need a different approach to being updated on a pupil's development.

And thirdly, support for teachers, including advice on learning resources, supporting the health and wellbeing of pupils and staff and on leading colleagues and teams during the lockdown.

Education Secretary and 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' wellbeing, and ensure learning can continue in an appropriate way, wherever possible.

"The guidance is aimed at those working in our education system.

"We are working closely with the National Parent Forum of Scotland (NPFS) on further advice, aimed specifically at parents and carers, which will be published in the coming days."

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."

Larry Flanagan, Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS) General Secretary, said: "This acknowledgement of the work being undertaken by teachers and schools is welcome as it the commitment to provide further support to parents, pupils and teachers across and unprecedented period of extended closure.

"The EIS also welcomes the recognition that supporting the health and wellbeing of pupils and staff is a critical aim, as without that, maintaining engagement with education at any level becomes even more difficult."