Moray Council issues reassurance after Microsoft Teams glitch disrupts pupils' online learning

MORAY Council has moved to reassure pupils, parents and teachers that problems experienced by pupils on the return to online learning yesterday were being addressed by software giant Microsoft.

Many pupils found themselves unable to access coursework on Microsoft Teams via the digital schools network, Glow, on their first day back after an extended Christmas break.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon highlighted the problem during her daily briefing yesterday.

Microsoft Teams is one of the main online platforms being used by schools across the country to provide education amid the level 4 lockdown. Schools are closed to all but the children of key workers and vulnerable young people until at least the beginning of February.

A council spokesperson said today: "We’re reassured that the issues being experienced nationally by Microsoft, and affecting user access to MS Teams, are being dealt with appropriately following the first day of remote learning with high volumes accessing the platform.

"In Moray, a range of remote learning approaches are being embraced to support all learners appropriate to age and stage while taking into account home circumstances and support available at home.

"Therefore, Glow, and online, access is not required at all times and alternative activities are available for our pupils.

"The range of platforms include online learning, physical resource packs, paper-based resources, live learning and teaching, pre-recorded learning sessions including voiceover PowerPoints, weekly learning grids, learning challenges and embracing other learning offers (eg. Education Scotland, Scholar, e-Sgoil, BBC Scotland, Digi-learn Scotland).

"All schools are mindful for balance of on-screen and off-screen time and need to vary pedagogical approaches for pace and challenge, and meeting learning needs."

Moray SNP MSP Richard Lochhead MSP said teachers had worked "flat-out" ahead of the move to online learning. He said: "Once again our teachers and education staff in Moray deserve praise for the way in which they have adapted to deliver home learning and for setting up the hubs for the children of key workers.

"I also pay tribute to parents and families who have had to be there, where they can, to support their children at this challenging time. As a father with two school-age children, I am very grateful for what’s being done.

"There are many different sources of materials available to help everyone but it is important to remember that parents are not expected to replicate the classroom. However, teachers have worked flat out to ensure pupils are able to learn at home now that our schools are closed due to the pandemic.

"I appreciate some households have challenges with connectivity that brings into sharp focus the need for good broadband in every community in Moray, which is something the Scottish Government and hopefully also the UK Government are working hard to address.

"I’m also aware that there has been some initial problems with Microsoft Teams that I understand have affected Scotland and other countries.

"I wish to thank everyone for their efforts and let pupils and their families and carers know that a huge amount of effort is dedicated to help us all get through this."