Audit Scotland has published a new briefing on Additional Support for Learning.

Audit Scotland has published a new report on Additional Support for Learning. The report raises concerns about the widening attainment gap in education, inconsistent data collection, and shortages in staff and resources affecting both pupils and education staff. 

The Association of Educational Psychologists (AEP) welcomes the publication of Audit Scotland’s briefing, which highlights the urgent need for improvement in how Scotland supports pupils who require additional support for learning (ASL). The report raises concerns about the widening educational attainment gap, inconsistent data collection, and shortages in staff and resources affecting both pupils and education staff.

David Collingwood, AEP President, said: ”Educational psychologists  are acutely aware of the challenges in providing effective support to all pupils.

“We fully support the call for a fundamental review of how education is funded, staffed, and assessed in Scotland to ensure every pupil gets the support they need, when they need it. 

“Inclusive learning can only be achieved if teachers and education staff have the right training and resources, which requires rethinking funding, class sizes, and school environments.

“Scotland also needs more educational psychologists (EPs). The report recognises that while the number of EPs has risen by just eight percent since 2019, the number of pupils with ASL has risen by 32 per cent. Educational psychologists play a vital role in assessing needs, guiding interventions, and supporting both pupils and teachers. Without enough EPs, many children are missing out on the tailored support they need.

“This shortage of EPs is particularly concerning in light of the widening attainment gap between pupils receiving Additional Support for Learning (ASL) and their peers. It’s clear that the current assessment measures do not fully capture the achievements of these pupils, making it difficult to evaluate the effectiveness of support. We strongly support the report's call for better quality data so that the national measurement framework can better reflect the diverse successes of all learners.

“We urge the Scottish Government, local authorities, and all stakeholders to work with us as educational psychologists to develop and implement strategies that give every child and young person in Scotland the opportunity to reach their full potential.”