O'Donnell calls for Modern Languages and special needs training

5.18.40pm GMT Fri 26th Mar 2010

Hugh O'DonnellLiberal Democrat Deputy Education spokesman Hugh O’Donnell has called for trainee teachers to receive more training in modern languages and practical training in teaching special needs pupils.

His call comes as part of Learning and Teaching Scotland’s review into teacher training, which is being conducted by Graham Donaldson.

Hugh O’Donnell has written to Mr. Donaldson to highlight the importance of often neglected areas of education.

Commenting, Hugh O’Donnell said:

“Special needs teacher training in Scotland is patchy.

“Many trainee teachers end their studies without being properly taught how to handle children with special needs.

“Practical training in special needs should be incorporated in the probationary year for every student partaking in the Teacher Induction Scheme.

“Modern language skills are critical for Scotland to progress at an international level.

“Unfortunately, there are notable disparities between teacher training institutions with regard to focus on language teaching.

“Not all trainee teachers are emerging confident and competent in modern languages.

“My research shows that at least nine local authorities do not offer any training in modern languages teaching to the primary school teachers that they employ. In addition, I found that several of those local authorities that do provide training, offer less than twenty places a year on such courses.

“This has to change for Scotland’s young people to be globally aware and competitive.”