Language immersion courses could help new Scots schoolchildren - Smith (Aberdeen North Liberal Democrats)

Aberdeen North Liberal Democrats <anne.carmichael@btinternet.com>

Language immersion courses could help new Scots schoolchildren - Smith

September 23, 2009 11:59 AM
Originally published by Scottish Liberal Democrats

Commenting on the HMIE report 'New Scots' which says that Scottish schools must do more to meet the needs of newly-arrived immigrant youngsters, Liberal Democrat Education spokesperson Margaret Smith said:

"I want to see councils consider establishing short-term, intensive language immersion courses for new arrivals prior to these children entering their local schools.

"This would consolidate scarce language teachers to give pupils a grounding in basic English before they are placed in mainstream schooling. It would allow them to capitalise on and make the best use of local schools.

"The SNP Government needs to investigate the different local options which might work in different local areas across the country."

Ends.