Pupil numbers at Kilcreggan Primary School – facing a cut in teachers next September – have risen faster than almost anywhere else in the area.
The figures, contained in a report by Argyll and Bute Council, appear to contradict a statement by the authority last month.
A review of teaching and learning in the 12 primaries in the Helensburgh and Lomond area shows that since 2010-11 there has been a 1.8% fall in the total number of pupils, which no stands at 1,735.
But Kilcreggan’s roll has shot up by 26.5%, second only to Parklands, the Helensburgh school for children with complex special educational needs.
Despite this, the number of teachers is being cut to just four, meaning that P5,6 and 7 pupils will all be together in one composite class.
When the cut was revealed here last month, the council issued a statement which now seems confusing, given the actual numbers: “We are committed to maintaining teacher numbers in Argyll and Bute’s schools in line with national policy.
“Teacher allocations are based on pupil rolls, using an agreed staffing formula.
“It is helpful to note that pupil numbers can fluctuate from year to year and this may have an impact on the staffing allocation for individual schools.”
Worried parents have contacted local MSP Jackie Baillie, who has asked for a meeting with Education Secretary Angela Constance to discuss the issue.
The council report containing the figures is here: Teaching and Learning 3 – 12 Primary Schools – Helensburgh and Lomond Primary Schools 201415-2
This is insane! The council seems to have been caught telling porkies – and maybe they should have paid more attention in Arithmetic?