EDUCATION chiefs are struggling to recruit an Arabic teacher for Syrian child refugees on the Isle of Bute.

They want to “uphold the cultural identity” of the two dozen families who have settled on the island since 2015.

The job was advertised by Argyll and Bute Council with a closing date of June 20. But the post, to be based at Rothesay Academy, has still not been filled. 

Yesterday, the council said: “We are still working through the recruitment process.” 

The aim is not only to preserve the culture of the young refugees but present “an opportunity” for all pupils at the school to learn a global language. 

The first families arrived on Bute from war-torn Syria in 2015 and one of the concerns of the parents was that, while adults were struggling to learn English, children were becoming fluent very quickly. 

Reports before councillors said this had created a concern for parents keen to maintain the children’s Arabic to uphold their cultural identity and the ability to keep in touch with family and friends from home. 

Council officers previously said they were considering the best way to support the families with the issue. 

Then the teacher post was advertised, to be based in Rothesay for 17.5 hours a week.

The initial plan is for a temporary post, with a pro-rata salary ranging from £22,866 to £36,480 per annum.