Review of senior phase

The Scottish Government will review the senior phase in schools to ensure that young people have the best possible opportunities.

Ministers will commission an independent review of how Curriculum for Excellence is being implemented for young people in S4-S6 to identify any improvements that could be made.

The move comes as the Education and Skills Committee publishes its report on subject choice which recommends a review of the senior phase.

Deputy First Minister John Swinney said:

“Curriculum for Excellence gives children and young people the skills and knowledge to achieve their ambitions.

“It is a broad framework that allows for local flexibility to best meet the needs of all young people, such as providing the most appropriate range of course options throughout the senior phase. There are clear roles and responsibilities in relation to this, as was clear from the evidence of Education Directors to the Committee. 

“Learners can now choose from the widest range of qualifications ever and what matters is outcomes – and last year a record proportion of pupils went on to positive destinations such as work, training or further study.

“Following a strong set of exam results, we must continue to ensure teachers can provide the most appropriate senior phase for their learners. We will commission an independent review of the senior phase to help us better understand how the curriculum is being implemented in schools and identify any areas for improvement. The scope will be agreed with our local authority partners, Education Scotland, the Scottish Qualifications Authority and the national Curriculum and Assessment Board, which includes representatives from all parts of the education system.”