My initial hope for devolution, as it would be for a state of independence, was for a Scotland that differed from the UK primarily in its more ‘enlightened’ governance. By which I mean greater emphasis on evidence-based policies and the collection of information to allow for proper critical appraisal. In other words – less subjective, more objective, regardless of whether the … [Read more...] about Time to shake up Scotland
Education
Prophets without honour in their own land
While there is much to celebrate in Scotland’s educational history, the country has not been generous in its treatment of educational innovators. Indeed, some have been driven south of the border in order to put their ideas into practice. Both Margaret McMillan (1860-1931) and A. S. Neill (1883-1973) received their schooling in Scotland, but found the Calvinist tradition … [Read more...] about Prophets without honour in their own land
Time for the SNP to get serious
The establishment of the Scottish Parliament owes more to Margaret Thatcher than anyone else. She was the true midwife of devolution. She left Downing Street almost a decade before the establishment of the Scottish Parliament but she cast a long shadow over the politics of devolution. Support was mobilised around calls to stop Thatcherism at the border, prevent another poll … [Read more...] about Time for the SNP to get serious
Christie can’t wait another decade
Ten years ago, the Christie report set out an inspiring agenda for change that would put people at the heart of public services. Unlike many reports, it has shown remarkable longevity. Its ongoing relevance reflects that fact that the need for change persists. Scotland remains riven by inequalities: in wealth, in education, in health and in opportunity. We face huge challenges … [Read more...] about Christie can’t wait another decade
Saturation point: why Scottish education needs fewer probation teachers
62% of new teachers cannot secure full-time permanent jobs yet teacher training numbers are at their highest level in a decade. Scottish education must wean itself off cheap probationers before more damage is done. One of my first jobs was in a high street shop when I was in S6, around the same time I applied to study history at university with the ambition of one day becoming … [Read more...] about Saturation point: why Scottish education needs fewer probation teachers