Controversial new data on the number of children reaching Curriculum for Excellence levels has been published by the government. The figures (which can be viewed here) will be used to inform new standardised national assessments at various stages up to S3. Most children are achieving the expected CfE level for their stage, while the “vast majority” of S3s have met or exceeded it, the figures show. But education secretary John Swinney warned that “significant improvements are required in some local authorities”. Experts have said that the data, based only on teacher judgements, is not reliable enough for publication.
A “radical transformation” of children’s mental health services is required and it must include better counselling in schools, according to a campaign group. Prevention and early intervention are crucial in tackling mental health problems, says the Scottish Children’s Services Coalition (SCSC). The group issued its call for action as figures showed that 23 per cent of those referred to child and adolescent mental health services were not accepted for treatment. The SCSC said that half of all diagnosable mental health problems started before the age of 14, and three-quarters by the age of 21.
Mandatory qualifications for headteachers have moved a step closer. Education secretary John Swinney has published draft regulations that could require all new heads in local authority and grant-aided schools to hold a Standard of Headship award from August 2019. He said that this would “ensure headteachers of the future have the leadership skills and support they need”. Opinions on the proposals are sought here.
The £53 million revamp of Ayrshire College’s Kilmarnock campus was officially unveiled by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon this week The site was donated by drinks giant Diageo following the closure of its bottling plant. The campus - accommodating 5,500 students and 338 staff - has a strong focus on Stem subjects and apprenticeship programmes. It also has a health and wellbeing centre, hair and beauty training salon, training restaurant and a lecture theatre.
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