Extra education funding

OVER £200,000 of extra funding will be given to Shetland schools over the coming year as part of the Scottish Government’s national scheme to help close the poverty-related attainment gap.

The money will be given directly to head teachers instead of going through the council.

Twenty schools in Shetland will benefit from the £233,880 of funding.

Allocations are based on the number of pupils from P1 to S3 who are eligible and registered for free school meals, with Shetland receiving the second lowest pay-out in Scotland.

Bell’s Brae Primary School in Lerwick will get the largest amount of funding locally with £43,200 due to come its way, while the Anderson High School is due to receive £30,000.

Nationally over £120 million will be given out in 2018/19 as part of the government’s Pupil Equity Funding.

Deputy first minister John Swinney commented: “Every child should have the best possible start in life, no matter their background.

“Schools have a significant role to play in ensuring every child is given the right support to help them achieve their full potential.”