Airdrie & Shotts’ MSP, Neil Gray, has expressed his delight at the increasing literacy and numeracy levels in North Lanarkshire’s primary schools. Notably, there has been a significant decrease in the attainment gap between the wealthiest and most disadvantaged students across Scotland. The latest data from the 2023-2024 Achievement of Curriculum for Excellence Levels (ACEL) highlights positive trends in student achievement.
Over the past few years, the percentage of primary school pupils in North Lanarkshire meeting expected literacy levels has risen from 68% in 2016-17 to 75% in 2023-24. Similarly, numeracy levels have seen an improvement, increasing from 74% to 81% during the same period. These local improvements mirror the national statistics, with 74% of primary pupils in Scotland now achieving expected literacy levels and 80.3% meeting numeracy expectations – marking the highest levels ever recorded.
The ACEL figures also indicate a narrowing of the literacy attainment gap between the most and least advantaged students across Scotland, reaching its lowest level to date. Neil Gray praised the dedication of teachers, students, and families in North Lanarkshire for contributing to these positive outcomes. He emphasised the SNP’s commitment to providing every child in Scotland, particularly in Airdrie and Shotts, with the necessary support to realise their potential.
Gray credited the government’s focus on education and the significant investments made in the sector for the encouraging results. With a continued emphasis on ensuring every child receives a strong foundation for their future, Gray affirmed the SNP’s determination to maintain this positive trajectory.
In conclusion, the commendable progress in literacy and numeracy levels in North Lanarkshire’s primary schools, coupled with the narrowing of the attainment gap, underscores the effectiveness of strategic policies and dedicated efforts in the education sector. The collaborative approach between educators, students, families, and policymakers plays a crucial role in shaping the academic success of students and fostering a more inclusive education system for all.
Insights and Summary:
Neil Gray, the MSP for Airdrie & Shotts, has welcomed the positive trends in literacy and numeracy levels in North Lanarkshire’s primary schools, along with the decreasing attainment gap between different student groups across Scotland. The data reflects a broader national improvement in student achievement, showcasing the impact of focused investments and supportive policies in education. Collaborative efforts between stakeholders have been instrumental in driving these advancements and promoting a more equitable educational landscape for all students.