Council urges parents not to secretly record conversation with teachers

The teaching union EIS said some staff had taken time off work due to stress, and some had even considered resigning. Council officials stressed that teachers must be able to carry out their duties free from intimidation or aggression, and staff would be encouraged to report threatening behaviour to Police Scotland.
According to the BBC, a parent said they had posted multiple audio recordings of conversations with school staff after raising complaints about their child’s education. The parent explained that they felt frustrated when their complaints were ignored or inadequately addressed, and that sharing the recordings helped other parents know they were not alone.
The letter also reminded parents of the importance of respectful and constructive communication. David Keating, chairman of Aberdeenshire Council’s education committee, said while parents may be passionate about their children’s education, teachers deserve respect and the council maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward intimidation. The EIS branch in Aberdeenshire welcomed the letter as supportive of members dealing with difficult complaints and interactions.