The EIS has responded to the Parliamentary debate held yesterday on the recommendations of the Hayward Review.
Andrea Bradley, the General Secretary of EIS, emphasized the importance of the Scottish Government taking prompt action in response to the Hayward recommendations. The focus is on ending the delays in the Education Reform process and implementing significant changes to qualifications and assessment in the Senior Phase, as outlined in the Review.
It was evident during the debate that there is a pressing need for action. EIS members have been advocating tirelessly for reforms in Senior Phase qualifications and assessment to alleviate the burden of excessive assessment on students and reduce the workload pressure on teachers. The aim is to shift away from an overemphasis on high-stakes exams towards greater reliance on continuous assessment, trust in teachers’ professional judgment, and creating more time for comprehensive learning experiences across all curriculum areas.
The discussion also revolved around the importance of involving teachers in designing course assessments, including coursework, to ensure a more holistic approach to evaluation. The concept of the Scottish Diploma of Achievement was highlighted as a means to promote a broader view of education beyond exam results, emphasizing the value of diverse learning outcomes.
However, the implementation of such transformative reforms poses challenges, especially in light of existing workload issues and resource constraints faced by teachers. Adequate funding, including provisions for additional staff, smaller class sizes, and dedicated resources for students with additional support needs, is deemed essential for successful execution.
Looking ahead, Ms. Bradley stressed the necessity of setting realistic timelines for implementation that prioritize a gradual and inclusive approach to change. Collaboration among stakeholders and a shared commitment to enhancing education in the senior phase are crucial for achieving positive outcomes for students, educators, and society as a whole.