The last two weeks has seen the heaviest snowfall to hit Scotland at this time of year since I myself was a schoolboy in 1965. I have spoken to Directors of Education, headteachers and school staff and I have heard about some of the hard work and effort that has gone into minimising this disruption.

 

 

I am pleased that today largely marks a return to normality for pupils, parents and teachers across the country, following a steady increase in the number of schools open for business throughout last week. I want to take the opportunity of expressing my personal appreciation and thanks to everyone who has helped out, and to do that now, whether or not there is more bad weather ahead. 

Praise is due to all of those – local authorities, gritter drivers, school staff, parents and others – who have worked so hard to make this happen.

I have heard of parents, pupils and community volunteers helping to clear school paths and access; and several local authorities putting up children and staff overnight in schools last Monday. 

I want to make sure that this commitment is formally recognised on a national basis. That’s why I’ve decided to ensure that our snow heroes can be recognised at next year’s Scottish Education Awards through the Educational Supporter of the Year category.

The Scottish Education Awards are about finding, highlighting and praising the success of staff, pupils, schools and those that work in partnership within the education sector across a number of key areas. This move will give the public an opportunity to highlight those who have gone the extra mile. 

I am also writing to all schools and local authorities today to thank them personally for their efforts in returning life in Scotland back to normality.

Read more about the Scottish Education Awards here.

Michael Russell Cabinet Secretary for Education & Lifelong Learning