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Scotcast

Fewer teachers = better schools?

Feb 25, 2025
26:17

A report has found the attainment gap has worsened for Scottish schools. It means the level of qualifications gained between young people in the most affluent and least affluent areas is widening.

For nearly 10 years the Scottish Government has said that closing the attainment gap is their 'priority'. We ask education journalist James McEnamey and BBC Political correspondent Phil Sim about a bold solution from a group of experts.

The Institute of Fiscal Studies (IFS) says there could be 90,000 fewer pupils by 2040, and that teacher numbers could be cut as a result. Could the money saved be a better help elsewhere?

Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast, with Martin Geissler and Laura Maciver.

Get in touch with us by emailing scotcast@bbc.co.uk

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