Amidst all the political drama in the run-up to the Holyrood elections – a new party, personal rivalries, defections, allegations and counter-allegations – the substantive issues facing Scotland risk being neglected. Whatever the outcome of the vote, education will remain one of the most crucial policy areas and the person appointed as Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills … [Read more...] about Education: no more business as usual
Education
Radical change needed to boost Scotland’s economy
Scotland’s economy was once held in great respect around the world for its innovation. As a nation, we led the way with ground-breaking discoveries, including penicillin, and Enlightenment thinkers such as Adam Smith helped shaped modern economics. Our education system was also heralded as a success and something for us to be proud of. But times have changed – our economy lags … [Read more...] about Radical change needed to boost Scotland’s economy
Why do we need a Year of Childhood?
‘Great news!’ I said to my chum. ‘2021 has been declared The Year of Childhood in Scotland.’ She looked underwhelmed. Then thought for a bit and asked: ‘Hang on, haven’t we already had a Year of Childhood?’ ‘No,’ I said. ‘That was the Year of Young People.’ ‘Ah! I see…’ Her eyes glazed over. ‘So when do we get the Year of Disgruntled, Disillusioned 45-Year-Olds?’ Happy new … [Read more...] about Why do we need a Year of Childhood?
Free school meals and child poverty
Last weekend a commitment was made by the Deputy First Minister that, if the SNP win the next election, they will extend universal free school meals to all attending primary school, covering both breakfast and lunch, a policy that it is claimed will reduce child poverty. There’s no official published economic, financial or inequalities appraisal from the government just yet, … [Read more...] about Free school meals and child poverty
Two attainment gaps in Scottish education
The handling of this year’s examinations by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) caused widespread disappointment and provoked considerable anger among pupils, parents and teachers. Although awards will now be based on teachers’ estimates (rather than on the computer modelling which had downgraded many results), the episode should not be seen simply as an ill-judged … [Read more...] about Two attainment gaps in Scottish education