Jackie Baillie, MSP for Dumbarton, Vale Leven, Helensburgh and Lomond, has called on Nicola Sturgeon to introduce a route-map and timetable laying out how and when schools will return.

Baillie has been contacted by many local parents who are worried about the education and wellbeing of their children. As of yet, no clear plan has been announced regarding when children can expect to return to school. She has written to the Scottish Government demanding answers for pupils, parents and teachers both in the local area and across Scotland.

Jackie Baillie MSP said:

“Nicola Sturgeon and her government managed to produce an in depth route-map laying out how and when our economy will reopen. Why is the Scottish Government incapable of doing the same for our education system?

“Hundreds of thousands of pupils across Scotland have now gone for months without seeing their teachers and parents have been forced to turn to home schooling – many of whom are doing so while also trying to work from home themselves.

“The Scottish Government has yet to give one straight answer on what the future looks like for Scotland’s school children. Hugely important milestones and educational experiences are being missed and, for many pupils, they will never get that time back.

“Parents, pupils and teachers deserve clarity and a straight answer on what the rest of the year will look like for them. The Scottish Government has a duty of care for these pupils and staff. It must do better.”