THE Scottish Government is preparing an intervention to stop councils from cutting teacher numbers, it is being reported.
According to the BBC, Education Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville is considering her options, with an announcement likely to be made in days.
It's understood the minister will also seek to stop the number of school hours from being reduced.
Asked by The National to confirm the reports, Somerville said: "We have very clear commitments to improve Scottish education.
"Ministers are firm in their views that Scottish education would not be improved by having fewer teachers or less time in school."
The move comes amid reports that some Scottish councils are looking to make cuts to education in a bid to balance their budgets.
Local authority group Cosla has said it is "concerned" about the level of cash councils have received from the Scottish Government.
It said a lack of funds for local authorities could lead to job cuts and a "detrimental impact on vital local services".
A spokesperson for the group said: “Cosla laders are aware of the proposed interventions and will consider a response tomorrow morning when they meet.”
In a document leaked to the Daily Record last week, Glasgow City Council made speculative plans to cut up to 800 teachers and close primary schools early on Fridays.
The plan, which hasn't been considered by councillors, would be part of a bid to reduce the local authority's £68 million budget gap.
The Scottish Government has been approached for comment.
