Lib Dems - SNP must be called to account for their failure on class sizes

12.01.00am GMT Thu 4th Mar 2010

The Association of Directors of Educations in Scotland (ADES) said today that greater flexibility is needed over the SNP pledge to have classes of 18 or fewer in primaries one to three. Commenting Liberal Democrat Education Spokeswoman Margaret Smith MSP said:

“This statement from education experts is very embarrassing for the SNP. It is very worrying that education professionals still have grave concerns over one of the SNP’s flagship policies.

“The SNP have continually failed to keep their pledge on class sizes and this latest damming report confirms this

“Many education professionals know that that the SNP’s plans to reduce drastically class sizes at a time where teacher numbers have plummeted and amidst great economic turmoil are just not doable.

“We need a fresh approach to restore teacher numbers and give new teachers the career opportunities they deserve.

“We want to see young pupils given a fair start in life and improve chances for disadvantaged pupils.”