New Scottish Education Council established

The first ever Scottish Education Council has been put together in order to oversee work to improve education.

It will be chaired by deputy first minister John Swinney, and bring together young people, education leaders and representatives from local authorities and the teaching profession.

The council will be a forum for frank and open discussion about what is working in education and where improvement is required. It will provide advice and guidance and oversee progress implementing improvement priorities.

Mr Swinney said: “Strong leadership and collaboration are vital to driving improvement and ensuring that all children and young people are able to reach their potential. As we work towards an education system that is led by teachers and schools, ensuring we have the right national oversight and support will be crucial.

“The council will work closely with local government and key stakeholders, including the new Regional Improvement Collaboratives, reflecting the significant role local partners will play in the delivery of system-wide improvement.

“I am confident that these new arrangements will ensure shared responsibility and improve transparency of decision-making while driving our relentless focus on improvement. Rather than just talking about raising standards in education, the new council will deliver improvements.”

Mr Swinney will chair the council which will meet every two months. Its members, roles and remit will be ratified at its first meeting, which will take place later in November.