Primary Schools: Attainment at a record high, says Curriculum for Excellence report

Latest statistics show widespread improvement

The proportions of pupils in primary achieving expected levels of literacy and numeracy have reached record highs for children from both the most and least deprived areas, according to official statistics.

Overall, the Achievement of Curriculum for Excellence Levels (ACEL) 2022/23 show:

  • for numeracy, a total of 79.6% of pupils reached the levels expected in 2022/23, a rise of 0.5 percentage points compared to the previous high (79.1% in 2018/19).
  • for literacy a rise to 72.7%, up on the previous high of 72.3% in 2018/19

The gap between the proportion of primary pupils from the most and least deprived areas achieving expected levels in literacy has also decreased to the lowest on record in 2022/23.

The figures also show improvements at secondary level compared to 2021/22, with increases in attainment across the board and the gap between those from most and least deprived areas has reduced.

Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth said: “These figures show record levels of attainment across primary school level and significant improvements in secondary. I congratulate our pupils and teachers for their hard work over the last year.

“These findings are the most up to date statistics on attainment and are comprehensive across all publicly funded schools in Scotland, demonstrating a clear rise in standards above pre-pandemic levels among primary school pupils. Along with this year’s SQA results, they point to widespread rises in attainment.

“I recognise that there is no room for complacency and our programme of reform across the education and skills system will help identify where further improvements can be made and will look to drive enhanced attainment to ensure all young people meet their full potential.”

COSLA’s Children and Young People Spokesperson Cllr Tony Buchanan said: “Today’s Achievement of Curriculum for Excellence Levels publication shows increasing attainment and the attainment gap narrowing reflecting the work and dedication of schools, councils, and partners to improving children’s outcomes. Mainly, it demonstrates the efforts of children and young people themselves and this should be celebrated.

“The improvements are made despite the backdrop of severe and increasing pressure on local budgets and recruitment challenges in specific subjects and areas of the country. Earlier this year we set out clearly to the Scottish Government that additional core funding is crucial to enabling further improvement in the attainment, health and wellbeing of children and young people, as opposed to financial penalties relating to school staffing numbers.

This was particularly important in the context of falling school rolls, changes to Scottish Attainment Challenge funding and the ending of additional resource for councils to support Ukrainian refugees. We are clear that Local Government needs flexibility to provide the right support within and outwith schools, drawing on the expertise of a range of professionals.

“Councils have continued to demonstrate their ambition to further improve outcomes for children and young people across Scotland. In line with the Verity House Agreement, we will seek to engage constructively with the Scottish Government to work collectively towards this shared aim, including on further education reform in line with recent reports on the curriculum, qualifications and new national education bodies.”

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National Deaf Children’s Society welcomes Scottish  Government’s response to review of audiology

The Scottish Government has responded to the report and recommendations of the Independent Review of audiology in Scotland, established following the NHS Lothian audiology scandal.

In response to a parliamentary question from Evelyn Tweed, MSP, the Scottish Government has committed to accept all of the recommendations of the review in principle, and to now establish a National Implementation Group to examine how best to implement the recommendations.

The Scottish Government response also stated that “this Implementation Group will be formed with partners from the third sector, as well as the health service, which will allow us to ensure the voices of those with lived experience are front and centre as changes are made.”

The National Deaf Children’s Society has welcomed the Scottish Government’s commitment to accept all of the recommendations, and looks forward to working with Government to ensure the recommendations are swiftly and effectively delivered.

Mark Ballard, Head of Policy and Influencing for Scotland at the National Deaf Children’s Society, said:  “Deaf children and their families will welcome the publication of the Scottish Government response to the Independent Review of Audiology. The review identified multiple, systemic problems within audiology services in NHS Scotland.

“We have called for the Scottish Government to grasp this opportunity for transformative change to make sure audiology is safe and fit for purpose. Parents will be relieved that the Scottish Government has committed to accept all of the review’s recommendations in principle – although we all recognise there is much work to be done to deliver on them.

“The independent review raised significant concerns about how well the results of the specialist tests carried out on children where hearing loss is suspected were being assessed. Issues with the assessment of the results of these tests, known as Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) tests, were identified in every Scottish health board area. So, we’re delighted the Scottish Government has committed to act on the various recommendations made in the review to improve ABR testing.

“However, these concerns were flagged to the Scottish government eight months ago, so it is absolutely vital that we act at pace to deliver these recommendations.

“One of the key findings in the report was that there has been a long term lack of investment and prioritisation of audiology services in Scotland. In order to achieve the shared ambition of making sure audiology services are safe and fit for purpose, appropriate funding will need to be found as part of implementation.

“It is therefore great that the Scottish Government has committed to ensuring that the voices of those with lived experience are front and centre of the new National Implementation Group.

“While we welcome this commitment to implement the recommendations of the review, the we look to the Scottish Government to provide more detail and expand on their current commitments, so that deaf children and their families can be sure that will be no repeat of the NHS Lothian scandal.

“We’ll continue to campaign tirelessly until we’re satisfied plans are in place to ensure hearing services across the country are fully staffed and operating at a consistent quality, with monitoring and data collection in place – all of which are crucial if we’re to fix a broken system.

“We know deaf children can achieve anything that hearing children can when they get the right support, but for this to happen their deafness must be identified at the earliest opportunity. This is why it is vitally important that children always receive high-quality and effective testing and long-term support.”

Vandalism in St Andrew Square: Police release CCTV images

Officers in Edinburgh have released images of a man they would like to speak to as part of an ongoing investigation into an incident that involved vandalism within St Andrew Square.

The incident happened at about 4.50pm last Saturday (9 December, 2023).

The man in the images is described as white and aged between 20 – 30 years old with short brown hair. He was wearing a flat cap, knee-length coat, blue jeans and carrying a backpack.

Anyone who can help in identifying and tracing the man should report this to Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 2618 of 9 December, 2023.

Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.

RCEM: ‘We must not normalise crisis’

Accident and Emergency

‘We must not normalise crisis or celebrate small improvements – our patients and our members deserve more.’ That is the response of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine to the latest A&E performance data.

Yesterday (14 December 2023) two sets of data published by NHS England, have been released: the latest Urgent and Emergency Care (UEC) Daily Situation Reports 2023-24 (also known as Winter Sitrep); and monthly A&E performance figures for November 2023.

While there have been some small signs of improvement in certain areas the overall situation remails extremely challenging with A&E departments declaring critical incidents this week, clinicians describing things as the worst they have experienced and ambulance chiefs expressing serious concerns about the pressure their service is under.

The most recent Winter UEC Sitrep data which covers the period 4-10 December 2023 paints a worrying picture with bed occupancy running dangerously high at almost 95% (the level considered ‘safe‘ is 85%) and two-thirds of ambulances not meeting the 15-minute target to hand over patients.

There was a small uplift in the number of beds available within hospitals, but these do not appear to have helped to ease pressure elsewhere in the system, and there remain thousands of patients, who are well enough to go home, but have not been discharged – occupying beds which are needed for other people.

The November performance data reveals that last month more than 144,000 people who visited an A&E within the month were there for more than 12 hours – the target is four hours.

Reacting to these figures, Dr Adrian Boyle, President of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine, said: “While the data suggest a marginal improvement compared to last year, it’s just deja-vu and we must not allow this permacrisis to become accepted as ‘normal’.

“Ambulances are queueing outside A&Es, Trusts are declaring critical incidents, patients are facing dangerously long waits in overcrowded and uncomfortable A&Es. Conditions are intense and difficult for staff, and the experience of patients is distressing and undignified.

“Clinicians are doing their very best, despite the circumstances, to deliver optimal and compassionate care, and mitigate any potential risks to patients but it is taking its toll on them too.

“It is welcome to see small increases in bed numbers, but it is not enough and patients continue to endure long waits.

“Significant and urgent action is required now to address these issues – this is what our members and their patients need and deserve.”

Data in detail:

The latest Urgent and Emergency Care Winter sitrep data for week ending 10 December (week 4 of publication for 2023/24) published today by NHS England show:

  • Bed occupancy levels at Trusts with a major A&E (Type 1 acute Trust) was 94.9%.
  • There were 99,497 beds open at Trusts with a major A&E, 1,521 more than the same week last year.
  • The Government promised that by winter 2023/24 there would be 5,000 more beds open when compared to October 2022 (97,287). For this week, there was an increase of 2,210 Type 1 beds compared with October 2022.
  • On average, one third of ambulance handovers involved a delay of over 30 minutes, while only one third of patients arriving at A&E were handed over within 15 minutes as per national guidance.
  • On average, 46,929 patients occupied a bed for more than seven days at a Trust with a major A&E.
  • On average, 384 beds were general and acute beds were occupied by patients with flu.
  • On average, 12,927 patients remained in hospital while no longer who were ready to be discharged.
  • There was an average of 49,020 daily staff absences at Trusts with a major A&E.
  • This is 7,547 fewer than the same week last year.

Published today (14 December 2023) by NHS England, the latest A&E performance figures for November 2023 show:

  • There were 1,385,701 attendances to major A&Es (Type 1 EDs) in November 2023.
    This is a 1.97% decrease compared with the previous month.
  • In November 2023, 144,085 patients waited 12-hours or more from their time of arrival. This accounts for 10.9% of all major A&E attendances in November. This means that more than one in 10 patients waited 12-hours or more.
  • The four-hour target at major A&Es stood at 55.4%, this is the fourth worst four-hour performance on record and the lowest so far in 2023.The aggregate four-hour target stood at 69.7%, the lowest so far in 2023. This is 6.3 percentage points lower than the Government’s intermediary threshold target of 76% to be hit by March 2024.
  • 42,854 patients waited 12 hours or more from decision to admit (DTA) to admission. This is a 4% decrease when compared to the previous month. It is a 13.2% increase when compared with November 2022.
  • Beds data for October 2023 show bed occupancy stood at 94.8%.
  • Data show there were 98,844 Type 1 General & Acute beds available.  This is an increase of 1,473 beds from October 2023 (97,371). And an increase of 1,636 beds from November 2022 (97,208).
  • Since it was announced in January 2023 that 5,000 new beds would be made available by winter 2023/24 compared with October 2022 (when there was 97,287 beds available), there has been an increase of 1,557 beds.
  • There were 396,755 emergency admissions at major A&Es. This is a 1.19% decrease since the previous month (401,523). This is the second highest number of admissions so far in 2023.

Holyrood Committee announces inquiry into Scotland’s Commissioners

DOES SCOTLAND NEED YET MORE COMMISSIONERS?

A new parliamentary inquiry examining Scotland’s Commissioner ‘landscape’ has been announced.

Holyrood’s Finance and Public Administration Committee will investigate whether a more “coherent and strategic approach” is needed for the creation of any further commissioners.

Scotland currently has seven commissioners directly responsible to Parliament. An eighth – the Patients Safety Commissioner – was agreed by Parliament in September 2023.

A further six commissioners have been proposed, or are being considered, that could potentially bring the total number to 14 by the end of this five-year session of Parliament.

Finance and Public Administration Committee Convener Kenneth Gibson said: “Seven commissioners cost £16.6m, according to budget figures for 2023/24.  Each office comes with its own staff and its own running costs. 

“The smallest cost £0.3m and the largest £6.7m.  More are being proposed, or considered, by both the government and by backbench MSPs.

“Our committee believes this inquiry is both timely and necessary.

“The Scottish Government has already stated there is very little published research on commissioners in Scotland – or the UK – and little evaluation exploring their pros and cons, powers or ways of working.

“Our committee will therefore investigate whether a more coherent and strategic approach is needed for the creation of such commissioners in Scotland.”

The committee will launch a call for views in January. Oral evidence will be taken in March / April. The committee’s report is expected to be published in May / June 2024.

Legislation passed on council tax on second and empty homes

Increasing housing availability using the tax system

New powers enabling councils to charge up to double the full rate of council tax on second homes have been agreed by the Scottish Parliament. Councils will be able to increase the charges from 1 April 2024, with rates for the first year being based on those from 2023-24.

The change brings second homes into line with council tax policy on long-term empty homes and aims to increase housing availability by encouraging more homes to be used for living in.

New owners of properties that have previously been empty for more than twelve months will now have a six-month grace period, during which they will be protected from paying double the full council tax rate, with the potential for the six months to be extended by councils. This is subject to evidence that renovations or repairs are being undertaken by the owner with a view to the building being brought back into use.

Public Finance Minister Tom Arthur said: “I’m pleased Parliament has backed this important legislation. These changes to council tax were a commitment made in our Programme for Government and aim to make sure the tax system works as an incentive to prioritise homes for living in.

“A majority of those who responded to our consultation earlier this year supported councils being able to charge a council tax premium on top of regular rates for second homes.

“By protecting those renovating an empty home from paying the empty home premium, we are incentivising new ownership and giving them time to organise and undertaken the work necessary to bring it back into use.”

Councillor Katie Hagmann, COSLA’s Resources Spokesperson, said: “I am delighted that this important legislation has now been given Parliamentary approval. COSLA very much welcomes the ability for councils to take the decision to increase the premium on second homes in their areas.

“This supports our long-standing position that councillors who are closest to their communities should be empowered to take the decisions about what best works in their local communities, demonstrating the value of the Verity House Agreement.”  

The Council Tax (Variation for Unoccupied Dwellings) (Scotland) Amendment Regulations 2023

A second home is classed as any home that is not used as someone’s primary residence but that is occupied for at least 25 days in a year.

Latest figures show that at the end of September 2022, there were 24,287 second homes in Scotland.

Second homes are currently subject to a default 50% discount on council tax. However, local councils can vary council tax charges and the majority already charge second home-owners the full of council tax, the maximum currently allowed.

Serious assault on George Street: Do you recognise this man?

Detectives in Edinburgh have released images of a man that they believe may have information that can assist with an ongoing investigation into a serious assault which took place at around 10.30pm on Saturday 18th November 2023 at George Street near to North Castle Street, Edinburgh.

The man police believe may be able to assist is described as white and in his 30s with dark-coloured hair. He was wearing a blue and white tie dye t-shirt, with jeans, and black and white trainers.

Detective Constable Christina Yeoman of Gayfield CID said: “This was an unprovoked attack at a busy time of night in the city centre.

“Violent crime such as this is of the utmost concern to police in Edinburgh so I would urge the male or anyone who recognises him to contact us as soon as possible through 101 quoting incident number 743 of 20 November.

“Alternatively contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.”

30 Drummers Drumming!

ROYAL EDINBURGH MILITARY TATTOO ANNOUNCES FIRST ACT FOR 2024

  • Not content with the traditional festive 12 drummers, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is upping the stakes with 30 drummers set to perform as part of Majesticks Drum Corps next year
  • The announcement follows an incredible 2023 Show run, with a host of performers dazzling the capital throughout last August

Swiss drumming group, Majesticks Drum Corps, has been announced as the first act set to wow crowds when The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo returns to the Castle Esplanade in 2024.

The dynamic drumline will bring its precision drill routine to the capital and serve as a showcase of the extraordinary skills of around 30 drummers, entertaining audiences with incredible timing, showmanship, and a touch of humour.

Formed in 2011, the Swiss drumming sensation has wowed crowds across the world, including in France, Germany and Malta but will make its Tattoo debut at next year’s Journeys performance.

Majesticks aim to offer visually attractive and innovative presentations in their performances, using a mix of special effects and original staging which ensures a spectacular and memorable performance for Tattoo fans.

Next year’s routine is expected to be a vibrant offering which treads the line between modernity and tradition. The music and all aspects of the display are composed by members of the group, who will be using a selection of snare drums, bass drums and cymbals.

The first act announcement follows a triumphant Show run throughout August for the Tattoo and almost a quarter of a million guests set to enjoy a celebration of the art of journeys at next year’s performance.

Tickets are already on sale, in time to make the perfect Christmas gift that offers a unique experience that will provide memories for years to come.

Jason Barrett, Chief Executive at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said: “The bar’s set incredibly high when it comes to acts for the Tattoo so it’s imperative that we work with those that are of the highest standard.

“That’s something that can certainly be said for the Majesticks Drum Corps, who I can’t wait to see as part of Journeys next year.

“Known for their incredible precision drill, they’re sure to set the Esplanade alight, delighting audiences with unbelievable displays of skill and smooth transitions as the group swap drumsticks and change drums in a mesmerising display.

“I’d encourage people to snap up their tickets quickly and keep an eye out for the next acts to be announced as I can assure you, you don’t want to miss out.”

This year, the Show saw 56 Tattoo dancers and 240 Pipers and Drummers take to the Castle Esplanade to tell their story, with 168 dance shoes worn – three pairs per dancer – and 340 drumsticks banged against 170 drums.

Ludovic Frochaux, Artistic Director of Majesticks Drum Corps, said: “We’re very excited to be bringing our electric and dynamic performance to The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in 2024 and look forward to performing for audiences on the iconic Edinburgh Castle Esplanade.

“Audiences should pay close attention to the way our performers display precision in their marching and drumming skills and keep their ears open to appreciate all that our performance has to offer.”

The 2024 Show, Journeys, will transport audiences on an international cultural journey, bringing together the voices and stories that connect the worldwide cultures of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. With the Royal Navy taking on the role of lead service, the Show will be a journey through time, celebrating the tides of change.

Journeys will continue to share the tales of performers and acts from around the globe, developing the theme through visual storytelling and taking audiences on a journey of imagination, wonder and amazement.

To purchase tickets for next summer’s Show, please visit edintattoo.co.uk/tickets or call 0131 225 1188.

Dentist separates oral care fact from fiction 

DENTIST DEBUNKS POPULAR ORAL CARE MYTHS

Oral health is a topic that has been shrouded in myths and misconceptions for years. From old wives’ tales to internet rumours, it’s easy to get confused about the best way to look after your smile.

Thankfully, dentist Dr. Elham Kordrostami at PAIST, the UK’s first 100% plastic-free toothpaste tube has shared some of the most common oral care myths and replaced them with evidence-based truths. It’s time to set the record straight and ensure you’re on the right track to a healthier smile.

  1.  “You should brush your teeth after every meal.”

While it might seem like a good idea to brush your teeth right after eating, it’s not always the best approach. After you eat, due to many reasons the broken-down food can make your mouth more acidic, meaning brushing your teeth immediately after eating can weaken your tooth enamel. Dr Kordrostami recommends waiting at least 30 minutes before brushing as this allows your enamel to reharden, making it safe to brush.

  1.  “Rinsing with mouthwash is a suitable replacement for brushing.”

Mouthwash should not replace brushing; instead, it should complement your oral care routine. According to Dr. Kordrostami, if you choose to use mouthwash, incorporate it between meals for added freshness, but avoid using it immediately after brushing.

It’s important to note that relying solely on mouthwash is insufficient for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, and dentists do not recommend it.

The traditional toothbrush and floss remain essential for maintaining your oral health, as they effectively remove plaque and food particles. When selecting a mouthwash, opt for one without alcohol to prevent potential irritation.

  1.  “Brushing your teeth harder cleans them better.”

Some people think that brushing vigorously with a hard-bristle toothbrush will clean their teeth better. However, this can damage your tooth enamel and gums. It’s best to use a soft or medium toothbrush and brush gently. Zealous brushing can wear down the enamel, leading to yellow teeth in the long run and increased sensitivity of your teeth. It can also cause gum recession.

  1.  “All toothpaste tubes are recyclable.”

Not all toothpaste tubes are made from recyclable materials. Traditional toothpaste tubes are often made from a combination of materials that can be difficult to recycle.   With 300 million plastic toothpaste tubes ending up in landfills every year, PAIST is committed to providing a fully recyclable alternative. Unlike traditional plastic toothpaste tubes, PAIST is 100% plastic-free, and is made from infinitely recyclable metal – cap included.

  1.  “Sugar free drinks are a safe option for your teeth.”

While sugar-free drinks don’t contain the sugars that can directly contribute to tooth decay, they can still be harmful to your teeth. Many sugar-free drinks are acidic, which can weaken tooth enamel over time. So, it’s essential to be mindful of the acidity and other potential tooth-damaging components in these beverages and consume them in moderation. Dr. Kordrostami advises using a straw when drinking anything other than water or milk to minimise potential damage to your teeth. 

  1.  “Flossing isn’t important.”

Flossing is a crucial part of maintaining good oral hygiene. Brushing alone cannot effectively remove all the food particles and plaque build-up from between your teeth and along the gumline. Flossing helps to clean these hard-to-reach areas, preventing gum disease and cavities. Dr Kordrostami recommends flossing at least once a day to maintain optimal oral health. If you don’t floss, you’re missing cleaning 40% of your tooth surfaces. Most dental problems occur in between teeth due to the lack of flossing.

  1.  “You should rinse with water or mouthwash after you brush.”

You should not do this. Follow the “spit don’t rinse” rule. After brushing, spit out excess toothpaste but do not rinse with water or mouthwash. Rinsing immediately removes the beneficial ingredients from the toothpaste, and by not washing them away, you allow these ingredients more time to work effectively.

  1.  “Fluoride is bad for your health.”

Fluoride, when used in recommended amounts as directed by dental professionals, is safe and effective in preventing tooth decay.

There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that fluoride in toothpaste or water is generally bad for your health.