No BAME headteachers in Scotland, government data shows

There are no head or deputy headteachers from an ethnic minority north of the border, according to Scottish Government data.

A study into the diversity of schools shows that none of the top positions were held by black, Asian or minority ethnic (BAME) staff members.

And despite there being tens of thousands of pupils from ethnic minorities, only 18 out of Scotland's 5,403 secondary principal teachers were from a similar background.

The Scottish Government said it is now working to build a more "diverse workforce at every level".

Scottish Liberal Democrat education spokesman Liam McArthur said: "It is almost beyond belief that there is not one single BAME teacher occupying any top position in any school in Scotland.

"It remains too often the case that those holding top jobs in most sectors are not reflective of the diverse nature of our society.

"By better reflecting our diversity at primary and secondary education level we can make a positive change which lasts for generations.

"This is a staggering revelation. It warrants a detailed response from Scottish ministers."

The issue was also raised by the EIS teaching union at its AGM last week.

A Scottish Government spokeswoman added: "Working with local authorities the Scottish Government wants to see a diverse workforce at every level, from the classroom to school leadership.

"We are ensuring that the new masters qualification for headship - mandatory from 2018/19 - is fully equality impact assessed so that it is fair and accessible for all."

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