Airdrie & Shotts’ MSP has welcomed figures showing increasing levels of literacy and numeracy in North Lanarkshire’s primary schools.
Neil Gray also highlighted a record low attainment gap between the richest and poorest students across Scotland.
The 2023-2024 Achievement of Curriculum for Excellence Levels (ACEL) data shows the proportion of primary pupils in North Lanarkshire achieving expected literacy levels has grown from 68 per cent in 2016-17 to 75 per cent in 2023-24.
Expected numeracy levels rose from 74 per cent to 81 per cent in the same period.
These local figures reflect the Scotland-wide picture – the proportion of primary pupils in Scotland achieving expected levels for literacy has risen to 74 per cent and numeracy to 80.3 per cent this year – the highest levels on record.
The ACEL figures also show that the attainment gap for literacy between the most and least advantaged pupils has narrowed to its lowest ever level across Scotland.
Mr Gray said: “These record-breaking figures are proof of the SNP’s commitment to giving every child in Scotland – including in Airdrie and Shotts – the opportunity to reach their full potential.
“We’ve seen literacy and numeracy levels grow here in North Lanarkshire and the attainment gap is at its lowest.
“This progress reflects the incredible dedication of North Lanarkshire’s teachers, pupils and their families.
“Scotland continues to invest more per head in education than any other part of the UK, and we have more teachers per pupil.
“This focus on education is paying off, with these figures demonstrating the real, measurable impact of SNP policies.
“Under the SNP, primary school children in Airdrie and Shotts are showing what can be achieved with the right investment.
“We remain determined to keep ensuring every child has the best start in life.”
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