IRVINE’S MSP has applauded the rise in teacher numbers across North Ayrshire. 

Ruth Maguire says Scottish Government initiatives such as the Attainment Scotland Fund are responsible for the increase.

Numbers of teachers have risen by 26 for a total of 1,385 teachers across North Ayshire. 

This is part of a nationwide increase of 253 teachers, including 160 directly funded by the Scottish Government’s Attainment Scotland Fund.

Welcoming the news, Ms Maguire said: “This growth in teacher numbers across North Ayrshire is very welcome, and reflects the Scottish Government’s commitment to getting it right for every child.

“The SNP has made closing the attainment gap a priority during this parliament, and actions such as the Attainment Scotland Fund, which has driven this increase in teacher numbers, shows the positive difference the Scottish Government is making for children.” across North Ayrshire. 

The Cunninghame South MSP added: “We are determined to make Scotland the best place in the world to grow up, and that means making sure our children are able to benefit from high quality education – and the increase in teacher numbers over the last year is one way in which we are doing this.

“The £750million attainment programme is already having a tangible impact in getting more teachers into our schools, and I look forward to working with the Scottish Government to ensure that children across North Ayrshire continue to benefit.”