Education governance review

The Scottish Government will not end up running schools as a result of the education governance review, the Deputy First Minister has said.

A consultation is currently underway into proposed governance reforms which will empower schools to take the decisions necessary to improve children’s attainment.

In a speech to the annual School Leaders Scotland (SLS) conference, John Swinney also pledged to ensure headteachers have the support they need to grasp the opportunities of further devolution in the education system.

Following the speech, Mr Swinney said:

“My relentless focus is on how to close the attainment gap and deliver excellence and equity in our schools.

“Our governance review is about getting education right for every child. Teachers and parents will be the key decision-makers in the life of the school because an empowered school with engaged parents leads to better education.

“Let me be clear: this is not a discussion about whether central government or councils are going to run schools. I can state unreservedly that the Scottish Government will not end up running schools as a result of this process.

“Nor do I have plans to turn headteachers into bureaucrats or accountants. What I will do is ensure that all the support necessary is available so that headteachers have the skill and confidence to grasp the opportunities change like this can bring.

“That is why I want to hear the views from teachers and headteachers – as well as children, young people and their parents - as part of the positive debate about how schools should be run that is taking place across Scotland.”

Background

More information about the Scottish Government’s governance review can be found here: http://www.gov.scot/Topics/Education/thegovernancereview