Scotland primary arts teachers decline since 2008
Statistics published and cited in political debate show a sharp fall in specialist primary arts staff in Scotland: dedicated art teachers fell from 80 in 2008 to 16 in 2025 (an 80% fall), while music teachers declined from a high of 108 in 2011 to 29 last year (about 71% down). Scottish Labour used the figures to criticise the SNP, while the SNP pointed to the wider Curriculum for Excellence and to Pisa measures. Pisa results showing Scotland behind English pupils in reading, maths and science have intensified scrutiny of attainment and curriculum priorities.
Primary art teachers fell from 80 to 16 between 2008 and 2025.
Context
Pisa released results comparing 15-year-olds in reading, maths and science. Official teacher numbers show a large fall in primary art and music specialists. The figures have led to political debate and possible pressure on policy makers.
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