Scottish Conservatives have called on the Scottish Government to review the remit of Education Scotland school inspections to include condition of school buildings.
Liz Smith MSP said:
“Whilst we must await the results of the inquiry into the tragedy at Liberton High School, steps can be taken now to address sub-standard school accommodation. One such measure is to include comment about the condition of school buildings within school inspection reports. If the priority of school inspections is to ensure there are the highest standards when it comes to learning and teaching, the Scottish Government needs to recognise that school accommodation is part of that process and that every possible step should be taken to identify sub-standard buildings.
“We need only look at the new campus schools to see the positive effect a good teaching environment has on pupil attainment, yet it is very clear from what several local authorities are saying that too many schools are at risk. For example, Perth and Kinross Council and Angus Council have both identified potentially dangerous defects with Angus Council reporting that approximately 10% of their school estate is at risk and yet they do not have the cash to sort the problems. This is, rightly, a major concern for parents.
“The earliest possible detection is required and there is a strong case to ensure that Education Scotland is given the additional powers to raise concerns should they deem this necessary. This is something that happens elsewhere in the UK and I think we owe it to Scottish schools to do the same. That is why I am asking Cabinet Secretary Mike Russell to take action now.”