First meeting of new Cabinet

The new Scottish Government Cabinet has held its first meeting, discussing the key priority areas of education and the economy.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon convened the meeting with her Cabinet Secretaries at Bute House as the Government continued its return to business.

The meeting comes ahead of a statement to Parliament tomorrow (Wednesday) on the Government’s priorities.

One of the first decisions taken at Cabinet is the formation of an International Council of Education Advisers, which will see a panel of internationally renowned experts advising the government on improvements to the education system and on lessons that can be learned from other countries.

The panel, which will be formed over the summer, will include experts in closing the attainment gap, achieving equity and system reform.

It follows the First Minister and Deputy First Minister’s pledge to ensure Scotland’s education system is world class, to close the attainment gap and to widen access to higher and further education for those from deprived backgrounds.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said:

“Education is my focus and this announcement demonstrates our determination to learn lessons from around the world to ensure that Scotland is a global leader in education.

“Giving every child in Scotland an excellent education and improving prospects for all our young people is at the heart of the Scottish Government’s priorities this term.

“This independent body of international experts will challenge and scrutinise our plans as we look to return Scotland to the top of class.”

On the Cabinet meeting, Ms Sturgeon added:

“The Cabinet has been shaped to reflect our key priorities of education and the economy, and both topics were top of the agenda at the meeting.

“We have a vision to take Scotland forward and we are wasting no time in getting back to business and implementing this plan.”