Tackle racial barriers to recruitment to boost teacher numbers, say education leaders

School Leaders Scotland (SLS) has also called for statutory mental health support for headteachers to recognise the “emotional toil” placed on them.

The professional association for secondary school leaders has released its Manifesto for Education 2026.

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It is calling for an “ambitious and optimistic vision” for a “trusted” education system in Scotland.

David Barnett, General Secretary of School Leaders Scotland, said: “Our priority is to ensure that those who lead Scotland’s schools are empowered to focus on what matters most: delivering high quality learning and supporting the wellbeing and success of every child and young person.

“This manifesto sets out clear, long-term national priorities that must transcend political cycles.

“If we are serious about building a modern, connected and inclusive education system, these priorities must be matched with appropriate and sustainable funding.”

Among the calls from SLS are that the workforce must receive more protection and support, the Scottish education funding crisis must be tackled, reform of the curriculum must be “courageous” and trust in the system must be rebuilt.

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It sets out a raft of policy ideas for achieving these four aims.

Alison Mitchell, SLS PL and Policy Officer, added: “Scotland needs coherent reform with investment that acknowledges both the complexity of the system and the professionalism of those in schools who lead it.

“All political parties must recognise the real and growing risk that continued disinvestment in education and in the wider services that support and protect young people poses to communities today and to Scotland’s social and economic future.

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“As a professional organisation with no political allegiance, SLS urges all political parties to place the needs of Scotland’s young people at the forefront of education policy and investment.

“The manifesto calls for courageous leadership, decisive action, coherent reform and renewed recognition of the professionalism, dedication, creativity and impact of Scotland’s educators.”

The manifesto also asks for recruitment and retention in rural and island communities to have support for placements, housing, travel and university partnerships.