Parents fear they could face a childcare “nightmare” after Fife Council proposed a radical shake-up of the school week which could save the council £6 million a year by giving children Friday afternoons off.
The Courier today reveals Fife Council is exploring the possibility of reduced teaching time to save an estimated £3.5 million a year in primary schools and £2.5m in secondary schools.
The proposals prompted leading teaching union the EIS to express concerns there could be teaching job cuts and problems with the delivery of the school curriculum.
Last week, Fife Council’s executive committee agreed to proceed to statutory consultation on proposals to close seven primary schools. On Wednesday, Fife Council leader Alex Rowley confirmed more substantial education budget savings were necessary as it continues looking at ways to close a £66m budget gap.
He confirmed one option now being explored was a reduction in teaching time within the school day.
This could be done by a number of measures such as a shorter day and longer lunch breaks. Another option was a half-day on Fridays. Savings would be made through less use of supply teachers while protecting frontline education.
Glenrothes parent Euan Howells, who is leading a campaign against the proposed closure of Tanshall Primary in Glenrothes, said: “This could cause a right headache for hard-pressed parents. There must be another way to save money.”
For a full report, see Thursday’s Courier or try our digital edition.