EIS against S1 to S3 model

THE LOCAL branch of the EIS teaching union has come out in opposition to plans of introducing S1 to S3 education in Shetland’s junior high schools.

The union has just submitted its response to the current consultation on the future of the Mid Yell and Whalsay junior high schools.

The consultation into either closing or removing fourth year education at Mid Yell and Symbister closes on Friday.

In a statement, Shetland EIS said it believes that the proposed S1 to S3 model for junior high schools would damage education and lower standards.

“S1 to S3 schools do not exist anywhere in Scotland. During this time of curricular and qualification change we do not believe that experimenting with young people’s education is advisable or desirable,” the union said.

The EIS is also “extremely concerned” that the staffing reductions contained in the proposals for S1 to S3″ would disadvantage pupils educated to this model.

Advertisement7 of 10

“EIS Shetland Local Association has serious concerns that a transition point of S3 will result in young people transferring from junior high schools at a significant disadvantage.

“Pupils will have to adapt to a new school at a much earlier age, with new classes, new teachers, new subject choices and living away from home whilst undertaking an intensive twelve month concentrated assessment period.

“We believe that this additional pressure on pupils is unnecessary and that the proposals will result in a lowering of standards and pupil attainment,” the union said.