It has been revealed that teachers were off sick for a combined total of 36,840 days in Mid-Scotland and Fife last year with 11,705 as a result of stress or mental health related conditions.
Perth and Kinross saw an increase in teacher absences as a result of stress since last year.
Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP, Murdo Fraser, is concerned that the introduction of the Curriculum for Excellence in addition to record low teacher numbers are contributing to absence issues.
Morale within the sector is at an all-time low and Murdo believes that unless things change these statistics could get worse.
Statistics last week revealed that there are 73 fewer teachers working in Mid-Scotland and Fife last year than there were in 2011, despite pupil numbers increasing.
Commenting Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“To have so many teachers absent as result of stress or mental health related conditions is concerning and councils across Mid-Scotland and Fife must ensure that they are sensitive to the needs of their teaching staff.
“In addition to the normal stresses teachers face, there have been additional pressures created as a result of the introduction of the curriculum for excellence and falling teacher numbers.
“I would urge the Scottish Government to be sensitive to the added pressure brought by new standardised testing and possible internal league tables.
“Not only are these conditions concerning for the teachers involved but there is also an impact on the individual student’s education. Supply and cover teachers are more than capable but nothing can replicate the rapport and knowledge of the teachers who are off ill.
“I would encourage the Scottish Government to investigate what can be done to help teachers struggling with both stress and mental health related issues.”